SafePlants

Woolly Hawthorn (Crataegus lanuginosa)

Considerations for Pets

• The plant may have thorns or sharp edges, which could pose a physical hazard.
• Woolly aphids, which are attracted to this plant, feed on the sap.

Considerations for Children

• The plant may have thorns or sharp edges, which could pose a physical hazard.
• Woolly aphids, which are attracted to this plant, feed on the sap.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Crataegus lanuginosa Sarg.
• Common Name: Woolly Hawthorn

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Rosaceae
• Synonym: Crataegus mollis var. lanuginosa (Note: the provided text indicates that a database entry for this synonym is currently incomplete.)

Distribution and Habitat

• The text mentions its presence in North America.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is described as having dense, woolly clusters of small white flowers resembling orange blossoms in early spring.
• In the fall, it produces pear-shaped fruits.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• This plant is a host for woolly aphids (e.g., Eriosoma crataegi), which feed on its sap. These aphids can also infest other trees and shrubs like apple, crabapple, elm, mountain ash, pyracantha, and cotoneaster.

Additional Information

• The text mentions several databases and resources, including the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database, Discover Life, and online resources dedicated to North American insects.
• The Hawthorn is described as wild, enchanted, and sacred.