Hawthorn

Hawthorn

Hawthorn Crataegus has a large number of species in northern temperate regions of the world. They are deciduous trees or shrubs which usually have thorns. The blossom is white or pink and some species have double flowers. Hawthorn often flourishes in areas that have been disturbed such as pastures and edges of woods. Insects are attracted to the strongly-perfumed flowers and when pollinated these develop into small red yellow or black fruits. In Britain hawthorn is used to make hedges and the blossom is known as "may". [CH] {FB}