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southern hawthorn

Scientific Name: Crataegus contrita

Family: Rosaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Crataegus viridis 'Winter King'

This page provides information about the 'Winter King' Southern Hawthorn (Crataegus viridis 'Winter King'), a cultivated variety of the Green Hawthorn. It is sometimes referred to simply as Southern Hawthorn or Green Hawthorn.

Considerations for Pets

  • This tree is noted for being thorny, which could pose a hazard to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • This tree is noted for being thorny, which could pose a hazard to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Crataegus viridis 'Winter King' (Cultivar of Crataegus viridis)
  • Common Names: 'Winter King' Southern Hawthorn, Green Hawthorn, Southern Hawthorn
  • Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
  • Synonym: USDA Symbol: CRVI2 (for Crataegus viridis)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to North America.
  • The species (Crataegus viridis) is most common in central and southern England (south of the Humber) and is fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.
  • National Distribution (United States): Regular occurring. Origin: Unknown/Undetermined.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Type: Tree
  • Size: Slowly reaches 20 to 30 feet in height and spread. Another source lists a height of 15' to 25' (4.60m to 7.60m) and a spread of 25' to 35' (7.60m to 10.60m).
  • Growth Rate: Average
  • Dense growth habit.
  • 'Winter King' hawthorn offers year-round interest, with flowers in spring, clean summer foliage, showy fruits in fall and winter, and exfoliating bark that adds winter interest.
  • Exposure: Full sun.

Ecological Role

  • The apple maggot fly, Rhagoletis pomonella, infests several hawthorn species in the southern USA.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The apple maggot fly, Rhagoletis pomonella, is known to infest several hawthorn species. The text references research into the specialization of apple maggot fly populations.

Additional Information

  • Hardiness range: 4A - 7B.
  • Tolerates drought and most soils.
  • Resists fireblight.