Crataegus laevigata Auriculata - Hawthorn

The Crataegus laevigata 'Auriculata' is a variety of the Smooth Hawthorn, Two-Style Hawthorn or Thorny Hawthorn. This plant, which provides food for birds, butterflies, moths, and bees, is ornamental in more ways than one. Its beautiful, highly fragrant white flowers in spring give way to small dark red fruits, and its foliage turns yellow in autumn before falling. It is a very hardy small tree and easy to grow.

The Crataegus laevigata belongs to the Rosaceae family, just like the wild rose and the plum tree. Although widespread, it is less so than its close relative, Crataegus monogyna, the White Hawthorn. 'Auriculata' forms a small tree or large bush that can reach 6 to 8 m (20 to 26ft) in height at maturity. Its habit is generally rounded, well-branched, with a wide crown. The base can sucker, allowing it to spread in width. Its branches are equipped with extremely strong long thorns. They bear deciduous, alternate leaves, measuring about 5 cm (2in) in length, ovate, lobed, of a shiny green colour, turning yellow in autumn before falling. In early May, simple cup-shaped, fragrant flowers of about 2 cm (1in) in diameter grow in tight clusters. They are white in colour with a pale yellow centre. In September, birds feast on its dark red pear-shaped fruits, about 2 cm (1in) in diameter, called haws. They are not edible.

The Crataegus laevigata 'Auriculata' adapts to any well-drained soil, not too dry, in a sunny or semi-shaded position. Not demanding, it will be satisfied with a pruning in February to maintain balance. Plant it in a large hedge, countryside or defensive hedge. Appreciated by numerous insects, birds, and small mammals, it is the ultimate food plant. Take advantage of it to create an ecological hedge with other shrubs that provide shelter and food: Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, and Viburnum opulus. The Smooth Hawthorn is also a medicinal plant.