Hawthorn

Crataegus species

Trees and Shrubs, Fruits and Vegetables, Herbs, Bonsai

Seed experiences a double dormancy: stratify 3 months in fridge, grow for 4 months at 70F/21C, then 3 months in fridge, then return to 55F/12C and grow on, or sow in cold frame, onto soil surface 4" apart, and allow several seasons to germinate. Light needed for germination. Slow from ring-barking. Does well in dry areas and well-drained soil, full sun to part shade; alkali soils are typically well-tolerated. Used for bonsai. Hardy to zone 3

Crataegus laevigata previously known as Crataegus oxyacantha, a good choice for clay soils, is hardy to zone 4. Crataegus monogyna, the common hawthorn, especially tolerant of exposed locations, and is hardy zone 5-7