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Common Hawthorn (Crataegus species, Crataegus monogyna)
Hawthorn is a name that refers to a large genus of shrubs and trees (Crataegus). One common species is Crataegus monogyna.
Considerations for Pets
- Hawthorn is characterised by its dense, thorny habit, which could pose a physical hazard to pets.
Considerations for Children
- Hawthorn is characterised by its dense, thorny habit, which could pose a physical hazard to children.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Crataegus
- One common species is Crataegus monogyna.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the UK and across Europe.
- Common throughout the UK, often found as a hedgerow shrub.
Morphological Characteristics
- A deciduous tree.
- Mature trees can reach a height of 15m.
- Characterised by a dense, thorny habit.
- Can grow as a small tree with a single stem.
- In May, hedgerows burst into life as Common Hawthorn erupts with masses of creamy-white blossom, coling the landscape.
Ecological Role
- Provides food for more than 150 different insect species.
- Thorny stems make it an ideal boundary hedge.
Historical and Traditional Uses
- Hawthorn (Crataegus species) has been used to treat heart disease as far back as the 1st century.
- American doctors were using it by the early 1800s.