Description
A tough hardy small tree used extensively in the UK as a impenetrable hedge in lieu of a fence or used as a wind break even along the coast. Deeply cut rounded lobed small leaves are an attractive deep green; white profuse flowering smother the branches in May are much loved by a plethora of pollinators; abundant red berry clusters contrast nicely against the leaves. Yellow fall colour. Haws will persist through the depths of fall and winter until taken by birds. If not harvested for traditional folk medicine for heart and inflammation conditions, they can be used to make jam or a delicious jelly. Many songbirds will nest within the protective thorned branches.
Outside the hedge, its an attractive small tree worthy as a specimen in large and small gardens.
In Ireland, its known as “sceach gheal” and known as the Fairy Tree in Irish lore and often found near holy wells.
Rough flaky textured gray-brown bark. Can grow in many soil types except bog. Takes well to pruning but is spectacular when left be.
- Seed Count: 15-20
- Collection Date: Dec 2020
- Hardiness Zone: 4-9
- Height and Width: 8m x 5m(full maturity)
- Preferred conditions: Full to semi sun; any soil but bog
- Germination test type: cut
- Family: Rosacacea
How to germinate Crataegus monogyna seeds:
Soak seed 24 hours. Cold stratify at 2-4C for 4 months in moist medium. Give 20-25C to germinate. Needs darkness to sprout, so keep this in mind if you are baggie sowing. For pot growing, sow 1-1.cm deep with a fine layer of mulch on top and give cold stratification to break dormancy. Germination is will around 70% with the remaining seed germinating the following spring. Cold stratification temps at 10C and higher will not only significantly reduce germination rates but also prove fatal to the embryo.
