Red Sun (Da Mian Qui) Hawthorn

Crataegus pinnatifida 'Red Sun' cultivar bred for improved fruit production and ornamental qualities. Known in China as Shan Zha. Small deciduous tree reaching 15 feet tall. Distinguished by unique oak-leaf-like lobed foliage (similar to some oak species), deep green leaves with showy lime-green and red new growth. White flower clusters in spring followed by abundant fruit. Self-fertile. 

Large, round, 1-inch diameter red fruits. Sweet and flavorful with sweet-sour balance. Delicious fresh, dried, stewed, candied, and made into traditional candy (bing tang hulu). Used extensively in Chinese cuisine for tea, fruit leather, jams, preserves, pies, cakes, drinks, and meat marinades. Ripens September.

Traditional Chinese hawthorn cultivar improved for larger, tastier fruit. Extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine for digestion, circulation, blood pressure, and heart health. Popular nostalgic fruit for overseas Chinese communities. Disease resistant and hardy once established, though young trees don't tolerate drought well. Prone to cedar-hawthorn rust; avoid planting near juniper or cedar (half-mile radius). Excellent single accent tree with well-mannered growth habit. Blooms in third year.