Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size5 x 4 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves turn orange in autumn (deciduous)
FlowersWhite flowers in spring, red berries in autumn & winter
SoilDrought-tolerant
Description
An attractive small garden tree, Crataegus persimilis ‘Prunifolia’ has glossy, dark-green, oval foliage which turns glowing shades of yellow, orange and copper in the autumn. Clusters of small, white flowers appear in May and are followed by colourful crimson berries that adorn the branches well into winter. The berries are popular with a variety of wildlife, such as honey bees, birds and squirrels.
This hardy Broad-leaved Cockspur Thorn tree will grow well in the very toughest positions, including coastal, exposed, dry and damp sites, making it ideal for most difficult gardens. Growing in a spreading, slightly rounded form with thorny branches, Crataegus persimilis will reach a height and spread of 5 x 4 metres in 20 years.
This Crataegus variety has received RHS AGM status and is one of the best ornamental trees for wild fruits.
AKA Broad-leaved Cockspur Thorn, Hawthorn, Crataegus Persimilis, Crataegus Prunifolia
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
