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Chinese haw

Scientific Name: Crataegus pinnatifida

Family: Rosaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Chinese Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida)

The Chinese hawthorn, scientifically known as Crataegus pinnatifida, is a fascinating plant with a rich history in Chinese culture and traditional medicine. Often referred to simply as "Chinese haw," this species is valued for both its fruit and ornamental qualities.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant produces bright red berries.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant produces bright red berries, which are made into a popular candy called haw flakes.

Common Names

  • Chinese haw
  • Chinese hawthorn
  • Chinese hawberry
  • Haw apple
  • Mountain haw
  • Whitethorn

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Crataegus pinnatifida
  • Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
  • Synonyms: Shan zha (Pinyin name for the fruit, &#23665&#26946)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Asia, particularly China.
  • Commonly grown in high-altitude areas in northern China.
  • Found on riverbanks, sandy soils, and stony slopes.
  • Hardy to at least Zone 6.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • A small to medium-sized tree, typically reaching about 15 feet tall.
  • The fruit is bright red, approximately 1.5 inches (38 mm) in diameter, and dotted with small light brown spots.
  • "Red Sun" variety is known for its unique oak-leaf-like foliage.
  • Showy fall fruit.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where it is known as Shan Zha.
  • Used to treat conditions like coronary disease in modern TCM.
  • The fruit is believed to feed the ovaries and uterus by increasing blood circulation.
  • Hawthorn is high in vitamin C and contains valuable antioxidants.
  • Used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat conditions like coronary disease.

Interactions with Humans

  • The fruits (haws) are widely consumed in China, eaten fresh, used in soups, or made into sweets.
  • Haw flakes are a popular Chinese candy made from the fruit.
  • The dried, sliced haw can be used to make a drink with hot water and dates or used for cooking.

Quirky Facts

  • Haw flakes, made from the fruit, are thin, round candies often packaged in cylindrical stacks with label art reminiscent of Chinese fireworks.