Crataegus monogyna HAWTHORN (10 seeds)

Hawthorn, also known as Quickthorn, Whitethorn, or May-tree, is a small shrub with a bushy habit that stands 2 to 4 meters tall. It is a hardy perennial often found growing alongside comfrey. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is native to Europe.

Its deciduous leaves are thick, lobed, and serrated, arranged alternately along the branches. In spring and summer, the leaves are a vibrant green, sometimes turning darker in autumn before falling.

The lightly scented flowers are white or occasionally pale pink. They are grouped in inflorescences called cymes and bloom in the spring, typically during the month of May. Each flower measures approximately 1 to 2 cm in diameter and has five petals.

Fruits of this small shrub are berries often called haws. They are red, sometimes turning blackish, and measure about 1 to 2 cm in diameter. They have smooth skin and usually contain one or two small seeds.

Hawthorn seeds from Crataegus monogyna species are brown, very round, and measure an average of 1/2 centimeter in diameter.

- Uses:

Whitethorn is frequently used in gardens for its aesthetic appeal. Its highly ornamental, fragrant flowers and attractive foliage—which changes color through the seasons—make it a top choice for gardens and green spaces. Its dense, thorny structure is ideal for creating protective hedges and privacy screens.

In herbal medicine, it is often used to improve cardiovascular health. This variety is renowned for its beneficial effects on the heart, helping to regulate heart rate and improve circulation. It is also known for its sedative properties, which can help reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep.
Do not consume without medical advice from a healthcare professional.

The berries can be used to make jams and jellies due to their slightly sweet taste. Some dessert recipes include these berries, often in combination with other fruits.

- Germination and Sowing Seeds:

• The best period to sow Whitethorn begins in February.
• Stratify the seeds outdoors during the winter or artificially by leaving them in the refrigerator for 3 months before cultivation to break dormancy.
• Prepare a tray of seed-starting compost and place the seeds on top.
• Cover them with 5 millimeters of substrate.
• Water the culture gently with a sprayer.
• Place the tray in a warm, humid greenhouse at a temperature between 20 and 25°C.
• Germination will begin 3 to 4 weeks after sowing.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

This shrub prefers well-drained soil, ranging from slightly acidic to neutral. It adapts easily to all soil types, including clay, sand, or limestone. Fertile soil rich in humus promotes better development, although the plant is very tolerant.

- Light / Exposure:

Crataegus monogyna enjoys full sun or light shade. It flowers best when it receives sufficient light.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

This shrub grows very well in temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C. It is extremely hardy and withstands extreme cold, resisting temperatures down to -20°C or even lower. Its USDA hardiness zone is 7b.

- Irrigation / Watering:

Once well-established, it is drought-tolerant. It is recommended to water moderately during the first few weeks after planting. During dry spells, occasional watering may be necessary.

- Reproduction / Multiplication:

This variety can be propagated in two ways: either by seed or by stem cuttings. For cuttings, take semi-hardwood stems 10-15 cm long. Place them in a mix of potting soil and sand or a light substrate. Keep the mixture moist and place the cuttings in a bright spot away from direct sunlight.

- Diseases / Pests:

Rust, which appears as orange spots on the leaves, and canker, which causes lesions on the branches, are the two main diseases that can affect this small tree. Insect attacks, such as aphids, can also impact the shrub's health.