Crataegus prunifolia Splendens - Hawthorn

Crataegus prunifolia 'Splendens' is a small tree with a spreading, rounded and dense habit, rarely exceeding 8m (26ft) in height and 6m (20ft) in spread. It is distinguished by its magnificent autumnal colouration, whether it be from its small scarlet red fruits or its foliage that takes on warm hues. The thorny branches bear glossy dark green, deciduous, leathery foliage. Flowering occurs in May with numerous fragrant white flowers, clustered in corymbs. Easy to grow and highly ornamental, this beautiful hawthorn will find its place in any garden, even small ones.

Crataegus prunifolia 'Splendens', sometimes known as Crataegus persimilis 'MacLeod', is an old cultivar, known in Europe since the 19th century. It belongs to the large Rosaceae family. This small tree has a long lifespan, with very hard wood, measuring approximately 8m (26ft) in height and 6m (20ft) in spread at maturity with a rounded and dense habit. Its branches bear long thorns, around 4cm (2in) in length. The foliage is alternate and deciduous. It is composed of simple, wide leaves, measuring 5 to 8cm (2 to 3in) in length, ovate in shape, without lobes, and deeply toothed. The leaves are glossy dark green, turning to orange-red to yellow in autumn. It produces numerous fragrant white flowers, clustered in dense, flat corymbs. The flower corollas consist of 5 rounded petals and numerous stamens with light pink anthers that turn purple. The flowers are highly attractive to bees. In September-October, it prouduces bright scarlet red fruits called 'haws', approximately 1cm (0.4 in) in diameter. They persist on the plant until the heart of winter and are consumed by birds.

Crataegus prunifolia 'Splendens' adapts well to any well-drained soil, even chalky soil, in a sunny or partially shaded position. It is undemanding and hardy, and may require occasional pruning in February. With its small size, it can be planted in gardens of all sizes, either as a solitary specimen, in the foreground of a bed, in a row along a path, or integrated into a rural or defensive hedge. Resistant to pollution and sea spray, it is an excellent choice for urban or coastal gardens.