Common Hawthorn

Common hawthorn is Crataegus monogyna, also called one-seed or single-seeded hawthorn. It is a deciduous, thorny tree with deeply lobed leaves, white spring flowers, and red fruit containing a single stone. [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/crataegus-monogyna) · [Royal Horticultural Society](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/4775/crataegus-monogyna/details) ## Features and placement The crown is dense and rounded, making the species useful as a specimen or hedge where its spiny branches can be kept clear of regular foot traffic. Oregon State describes a typical height of about 20–30 feet and notes thorns up to roughly an inch long; the RHS gives broader mature ranges of 4–8 metres for height and spread. The foliage is glossy green and can turn gold in autumn. Flat clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers appear in late spring, followed by dark red autumn fruit. ## Maintenance Grow in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. Water new plantings while they establish, then adapt watering to rainfall and soil conditions. Hawthorn fruit is not a general food recommendation: the RHS notes that seeds contain toxins and should be removed if fruit is being considered for food. Oregon State lists common hawthorn as hardy to USDA Zone 4; local winter exposure and site conditions still matter. Preserve the existing one-seed aliases when labeling this species, and leave room for its mature crown and thorny branches. [RHS growing conditions and harm note](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/4775/crataegus-monogyna/details) · [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/crataegus-monogyna)