SafePlants

Common Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

Considerations for Pets

• Some Hawthorn species have spiny branches.
• Berries can be present, which might be attractive to pets.

Considerations for Children

• Some Hawthorn species have spiny branches.
• Berries can be present, which might be attractive to children.

Common Names

• Common Hawthorn
• Single-Seeded Hawthorn
• May-Tree

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crataegus monogyna
• Cratageus triflora is also mentioned as a scientific name for Three-flower Hawthorn.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the UK, specifically mentioning Midland Hawthorn.
• Crataegus triflora is found in Northwest Georgia, Southeastern United States.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Can be a large shrub or small tree.
• Leaves are shiny, divided into three to seven pairs of lobes for Common Hawthorn, or shiny, three-lobed and glossy dark green for Midland Hawthorn.
• Flowers are five-petalled and sweet-smelling, often appearing in three-flowered clusters.
• Fruits are red, oval berries (haws). Some mature to a fleshy red berry (a pome).
• Green Hawthorn flowers are noted for a bad smell.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

• Flowers, leaves, and fruit (berries) are used as medicine.
• Used as a cardiac tonic.
• Mentioned for stabilizing erratic heart function.

Quirky Facts

• Hawthorn is the only British plant named after the month in which it flowers (May).
• Mature flowers should be avoided, or any part that smells like almonds.
• Locals say the trees smell of something not specified when Hawthorn flowers first bloom.
• A branch of flowering hawthorn placed in a studio or workshop is believed to have a specific effect, but this effect is not described in the text.