Washington Hawthorn (Seedling)(Crataegus Phaenopyrum)

Crataegus phaenopyrum. Small low-branching deciduous tree 25-30 feet tall, rounded crown. Southeastern U.S. native (Virginia to Missouri, Arkansas to Alabama). Strong horizontal branches, gray bark. Spike-like thorns 1-3 inches. Triangular leaves with 3-5 shallow lobes, serrated margins, 1-3 inches long. Glossy dark green summer foliage turning brilliant orange, scarlet, to purple in fall. Last hawthorn to flower (late spring/June). Most heat tolerant hawthorn. Thornless cultivars available ('Princeton Sentry', 'Fastigiata'). Good resistance to cedar-apple rust. Zones

Bright red glossy pomes (haws), 1/4 inch diameter, persist throughout winter. Edible raw with dry flesh, very small. Often hangs on tree all winter. Commonly made into jellies, jams, wines. Important winter food source for robins, waxwings, songbirds.

Reportedly first grown commercially near Washington, D.C. in late 1700s, hence common name. Discovered/documented near Washington D.C. early in American history. Native to open woodlands, savannas, woodland borders, thickets, fence rows primarily in Ozark/southeastern regions. Pioneer species benefiting from occasional disturbance. Extensively planted as ornamental landscape tree for four-season interest - flowers, fruit, fall color, winter berries. Popular specimen tree, street tree, hedge plant. Tolerates wide range of soils. 'Winter King' (C. viridis 'Winter King') is similar cultivar. Tolerant of black walnut toxicity.