Crataegus nigra - Hungarian Black Hawthorn

Crataegus nigra, also known as the Black Hawthorn, Hungarian Hawthorn, or Blackthorn, is a species closely related to the smooth hawthorn found in the countryside, which grows spontaneously in Eastern Europe. It is a small, deciduous, thorny, hardy, decorative tree, useful for wildlife, whose ripe black fruits can be consumed. Its white flowering in May is loved by bees, and its fruits are coveted by birds. Easy to grow in average soil, the Hungarian hawthorn has a place in a country or defensive hedge. It is also a medicinal plant.

Crataegus nigra belongs to the Rosaceae family, just like the wild rose and the plum tree. It is a hawthorn native to Hungary, Serbia, and Croatia. In the wild, it is found in deciduous forests on limestone soils. It is a small tree or large bush with relatively slow growth, reaching an average height of 7m with a spread of 4m, depending on the growing conditions. Its habit is rounded to spreading, with thorny branches forming a dense crown. The leaves of Crataegus nigra are alternate, simple, and lobed, measuring 2 to 5 cm in length. They usually have 3 to 5 rounded lobes with serrated edges. Their lamina is dark green and shiny on the upper surface and paler on the lower surface. The leaves emerge in spring and turn yellow in autumn before falling. The Hungarian hawthorn flowers in spring, usually in May. The white or slightly pink flowers are grouped in corymbs or small flattened clusters, about 1 cm in diameter. They are nectar-rich and attract pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies. After flowering, black berry-like fruits called haws form. These ovoid berries with a slightly flattened or irregular surface are black when ripe and measure 8 to 10 mm in diameter. They are edible and appreciated by birds. Each fruit contains one or two angular stones that enclose the seeds. Their flesh is relatively thin and slightly mealy, with a sweet-tart taste. This hawthorn can live for many years.

The fruits of the black hawthorn can be consumed raw, cooked, or dried. They can be used as pie fillings or in jams. Birds and other animals that consume them contribute to seed dispersal.

Crataegus nigra adapts to a wide range of soils, neither too wet nor too dry. This undemanding shrub only requires pruning for balance in February. Plant the hawthorn in a large hedge, alongside ornamental apple trees, cotoneasters, wild pear trees, quince trees, and other sea buckthorns, for example. You will provide shelter and food for many insects, birds, and small mammals in your garden.