Broad-leaved Cockspurthorn Crataegus persimilis
ABOUT
The plant known as Crataegus persimilis, commonly referred to as the Broad-leaved Cockspur Thorn, has a distinctive appearance. It bears a spreading, rounded crown that gives it a stately presence. The leaves are broad and oval-shaped with a deep green hue, which turn to striking shades of red and orange in the fall, adding a brilliant display of color. Its flowers are a notable feature, with clusters of white blossoms that emerge in spring, providing a contrast against the dark green foliage and attracting pollinators to the garden. As summer wanes, these flowers give way to small, glossy red fruits which are commonly known as haws. These berry-like fruits persist into winter and serve as a food source for birds and other wildlife, adding both ecological value and winter interest to landscapes. The bark of the Broad-leaved Cockspur Thorn is rough and textured, often appearing grayish-brown, and provides additional visual interest, especially in the dormant months when the leaves have fallen. Moreover, Broad-leaved Cockspur Thorn is noted for its hardy, thorny branches that provide a natural defense mechanism and contribute to its rugged appearance. These thorns can be quite sharp, so care should be taken when planting it in areas frequented by people and pets. Despite its thorns, this plant is widely appreciated for its ornamental appeal and its ability to thrive under a variety of conditions, making it a versatile choice for many gardeners.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Broad-leaved Cockspur Thorn, Thorn Apple.
Common names
Crataegus persimilis.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Crataegus persimilis, commonly referred to as the Broad-leaved Cockspurthorn, is not considered to be highly toxic to humans. Generally, hawthorns are recognized for their medicinal properties and have been used in various cultures for treating heart-related conditions. However, like with many plants, certain parts such as the seeds contain compounds that can potentially be harmful if ingested in large quantities. Specifically, the seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when metabolized. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, and potentially could result in more severe symptoms such as respiratory failure or even death if consumed in very large amounts. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid ingesting the seeds, and consuming any part of the plant should be done with caution and awareness of the potential risks.
To pets
The Broad-leaved Cockspurthorn, or Crataegus persimilis, is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. Hawthorn plants, in general, are not usually a cause for concern when it comes to pet safety. However, it is important to consider that the seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can produce cyanide in the digestive system. While poisoning from this is rare, ingestion of large amounts of seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning in pets, with symptoms similar to those in humans, including vomiting, difficulty breathing, and increased heart rate. In extreme cases, it could result in more serious health implications or even be fatal. As pets might be more inclined to chew on available plants, it is always a safe practice to prevent pets from ingesting plant seeds of any kind.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
20 feet [6 meters]
Spread
20 feet [6 meters]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Crataegus persimilis, commonly known as Hawthorn, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its attractive white flowers, bright red berries, and rich green foliage.
- Wildlife Attraction: The berries serve as a food source for various bird species, making Hawthorn an excellent choice for wildlife gardens.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Hawthorn trees are quite drought-resistant, making them suitable for xeriscaping and low-water-use landscapes.
- Hardiness: This species is known for its ability to withstand harsh conditions, including poor soils and urban pollution, making it a resilient choice for urban plantings.
- Seasonal Interest: With seasonal changes from spring flowers to autumn berries and colorful fall foliage, Hawthorns provide year-round visual interest.
- Erosion Control: The strong root system of Hawthorn helps stabilize the soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Privacy and Screening: When planted in a row or hedge, Hawthorn can provide privacy and act as a natural screen or windbreak.
- Compact Size: Hawthorn trees generally remain small to medium in size, which makes them suitable for smaller gardens and spaces where a full-sized tree would be impractical.
Medical Properties- Cardiotonic: Crataegus persimilis, commonly known as Broadleaf Hawthorn, may have cardiotonic effects, potentially improving heart muscle function.
- Antioxidant: The plant may possess antioxidant properties that could help in protecting cells from oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory: Broadleaf Hawthorn might act to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antihypertensive: It is thought to have antihypertensive effects, potentially aiding in the management of high blood pressure.
- Antiarrhythmic: There are indications that the plant could have antiarrhythmic properties, contributing to the regulation of heart rhythm.
- Vasodilatory: It might also have vasodilatory effects, which can widen blood vessels and improve blood flow.
- Antihyperlipidemic: Components of Broadleaf Hawthorn may lower cholesterol levels, assisting in the management of lipid disorders.
- Anxiolytic: The plant may exert a mild anxiolytic effect, which could help reduce anxiety and stress.
- Digestive aid: There is some evidence to suggest that it could aid in digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crataegus persimilis, commonly known as "Princeton Hawthorn," can be used in creating hedgerows due to its dense growth habit, providing privacy and acting as a windbreak.
- The wood of Princeton Hawthorn is hard and can be utilized for making small wooden objects, such as tool handles and crafts that require a durable material.
- Folk tradition suggests that Hawthorn branches were used to make maypoles in ancient agricultural celebrations.
- The plant's thorns can be used as natural fishhooks by survivalists after sharpening one end.
- Princeton Hawthorn can serve as a host for various species of moths and butterflies, thus promoting biodiversity in gardens and natural habitats.
- Due to their dense and thorny nature, these plants can function as a living livestock barrier, preventing animals from straying away from designated areas.
- Beekeepers value Princeton Hawthorn for its flowers as a source of nectar, contributing to the production of richly flavored honey.
- The plant's branches and thorns are sometimes utilized in home security measures arranged around windows or boundaries as a deterrent against trespassers.
- In some cultures, Hawthorn branches were used to make besom brooms, a type of broom consisting of twigs tied around a stick.
- Landscapers and park services use Princeton Hawthorn in urban environments for its tolerance to pollution, providing greenery and improving aesthetics in cities with poor air quality.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hawthorn is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hawthorn is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope: Crataegus persimilis, commonly known as the Hawthorn tree, has been a symbol of hope throughout history as its blossoms signal the return of spring and the renewal of nature.
- Protection: In many cultures, Hawthorn is believed to have protective properties, often being planted near homes to guard against lightning strikes and evil spirits.
- Fertility: The prolific nature of Hawthorn's flowers in the spring has also associated it with fertility and the vitality of life.
- Love and Marriage: With its lush blooms, the Hawthorn tree is often linked to love and the blossoming of relationships; in some traditions, it is associated with the goddess of love, and its branches are used in wedding ceremonies.
- Happiness: Being a plant that heralds the spring, Hawthorn is connected to happiness and the joy brought by the end of winter and the beginning of the warmer, fertile seasons.
WaterFor the Crataegus persimilis, commonly known as the broadly similar hawthorn, watering should be done deeply and infrequently to encourage strong root growth. Provide the plant with about 1 to 2 gallons of water per week during the growing season, but be cautious not to overwater as the species is quite drought-tolerant. During hot, dry periods, water the plant once a week, and reduce watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy. In winter, watering is typically unnecessary unless there is a prolonged dry spell, in which case water sparingly to prevent the roots from drying out completely.
LightBroadly similar hawthorn thrives in full sun to partial shade. It performs best when planted in a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. The ideal spot for this tree would be an open area with unobstructed sunlight, though it can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureThe broadly similar hawthorn can withstand a range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 7. It can survive minimum temperatures down to -30°F and is tolerant of high temperatures as long as it is sufficiently watered. The ideal temperature range for promoting growth and health in this tree is between 60°F and 80°F.
PruningPruning the broadly similar hawthorn is important for shaping the tree, promoting healthy growth, and removing any dead or diseased wood. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Annual pruning is generally recommended, but light pruning can be done at any time to remove damaged or wayward branches.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Cockspur Hawthorn should be well-draining with a mixture of loam, sand, and organic matter. The ideal pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
RepottingCockspur Hawthorn trees do not need frequent repotting as they are typically planted outdoors. They may only require transplantation if they outgrow their space or for landscaping considerations.
Humidity & MistingCockspur Hawthorn is adaptable to a range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions for growth, making it versatile and hardy.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in bright light, moderate watering, not common indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, tolerate urban conditions.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA
Life cycleCrataegus persimilis, commonly known as the Broadleaf Hawthorn, begins its life cycle as a dormant seed that requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. After stratification, in the right conditions of moisture and temperature, the seed germinates and develops into a seedling with rudimentary roots and shoots. As the seedling grows, it develops into a young sapling with a woody stem and branches, forming leaves that enable photosynthesis. Over the years, the Broadleaf Hawthorn matures into a full-sized shrub or small tree, generally reaching its reproductive age after several years where it starts to produce clusters of white flowers during spring. Following pollination, typically by bees and other insects, the flowers develop into red berries, called haws, which contain seeds and are often dispersed by wildlife, thus ensuring the propagation of the species. Eventually, the plant may enter a period of senescence, showing reduced growth and reproductive output before dying, but it can live and remain productive for many years under suitable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Crataegus persimilis, commonly known as the Broad-leaved Cockspur Thorn, is frequently propagated through seed planting. The best time for seed propagation is in fall, immediately after the seeds are harvested. However, due to dormancy mechanisms in the seeds, a period of cold stratification is often required to improve germination rates. This involves mixing the seeds with a moist substrate, such as sand or peat, and then storing them at temperatures around 34°F to 40°F (1°C to 4.4°C) for approximately 2 to 3 months. Following this stratification period, the seeds can be sown in spring, either directly in the desired location or in a nursery bed where they can be tended until ready for transplanting.
