Chinese hawthorn Crataegus pinnatifida var. major 'Big Golden Star'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Big Golden Star', is a visually striking variety that exhibits a lush appearance. It is characterized by its deep green leaves that are broadly shaped with serrated edges that taper to points. These leaves provide a dense foliage that lends a robust, bushy look to the overall plant. During its blooming period, the plant showcases clusters of small white flowers that exude a dainty charm and can attract various pollinators such as bees and butterflies. As the season progresses, these flowers give way to bright red berries that stand out against the greenery, offering a vibrant contrast and a source of food for wildlife. The berries are also a standout feature, being larger and more numerous, which may be why this variety bears the name 'Big Golden Star'. The overall appearance of the plant is of a hardy nature, with a rounded and spreading form that creates an appealing aesthetic in any garden or landscape setting where it is cultivated.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Chinese Hawthorn, Big Golden Star, Major Hawthorn.
Common names
Crataegus pinnatifida var. major.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Chinese hawthorn is not typically considered toxic to humans. In fact, its fruit is often eaten and is sometimes used in traditional medicine. However, as with any plant, individual allergies and sensitivities can occur, so it is always advisable to be cautious when trying any new plant for the first time. There are no well-documented symptoms of poisoning because it is generally not considered poisonous.
To pets
The Chinese hawthorn is not commonly known to be toxic to pets, and it is unlikely that the fruit or any other parts of the plant would cause them harm if ingested in small quantities. As with humans, it is always best to keep an eye on your pets to watch for any signs of allergies or adverse reactions and consult with a veterinarian if you believe your pet has eaten something problematic. However, there is no specific information indicating that the Chinese hawthorn poses a significant risk of toxicity to pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
15 feet (4.57 meters)
Spread
20 feet (6.10 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Offers aesthetic value to gardens with its attractive foliage and golden-yellow fruits.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and food for birds and other wildlife.
- Low Maintenance: Often requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Capable of withstanding periods of low water availability once mature.
- Pollinator Friendly: Flowers can attract bees and other pollinators, enhancing pollination of nearby plants.
- Seasonal Interest: Adds visual interest across seasons with its spring blossoms, summer leaves, and autumn fruits.
- Soil Stabilization: Can help prevent soil erosion with its root system, especially on slopes and banks.
- Edible Fruits: The fruits, known as Chinese hawthorns, can be used in various culinary applications.
- Cultural Significance: Has a role in various cultural traditions and might be used in festive decorations or ceremonies.
- Diversity in Landscaping: Great for adding variety to a garden or landscape due to its unique characteristics compared to other plants.
Medical Properties- Cardiovascular Support: Hawthorn (common name of Crataegus pinnatifida var. major 'Big Golden Star') is traditionally used to support cardiovascular health, potentially improving circulation and stabilizing heart function.
- Antioxidant Properties: Contains flavonoids and other compounds with antioxidant activity that may help protect against cellular damage and support overall health.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: May exhibit anti-inflammatory effects which could be beneficial in reducing inflammation in various conditions.
- Digestive Aid: Has been used to aid digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort such as indigestion and abdominal pain.
- Antihypertensive Potential: Hawthorn extracts may help in lowering high blood pressure, contributing to cardiovascular health.
- Lipid Regulation: May help in regulating blood lipid levels, supporting the maintenance of healthy cholesterol.
- Anxiolytic Effect: Some evidence suggests it may help reduce anxiety, likely due to its calming effect on the nervous system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hawthorn fruits can be used to make jellies, jams, and marmalades due to their pectin content which naturally helps these spreads set.
- In some cultures, the fruits of the hawthorn have traditionally been used to produce a homemade wine with a rich, fruity flavor.
- Fermented hawthorn berries can be made into a vinegar, which is often used as a flavoring for foods or as a base for dressings.
- The wood of hawthorn trees is hard and dense, making it suitable for crafting small wooden items such as tool handles, crafts, or engraving.
- Hawthorn leaves and flowers can be used as a natural dye, providing colors ranging from green to yellow, depending on the mordant used.
- The flowering branches of hawthorn are used in some regions as decoration for wedding ceremonies, symbolizing hope and prosperity.
- Hawthorn trees can be cultivated as a bonsai for decorative purposes due to their attractive flowers and interesting branch structure.
- The thorns of hawthorn are sometimes used as fish hooks in traditional or survivalist practices.
- Hawthorn trees are often planted as hedgerows in rural landscapes, providing not only boundary markers but also habitats for wildlife.
- The dense and thorny nature of hawthorn makes it an effective barrier plant or living fence, deterring trespassers and enclosing livestock.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chinese hawthorn is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chinese hawthorn is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope: Crataegus, commonly known as hawthorn, often symbolizes hope as its blossoming marks the return of spring and the renewal of nature.
- Protection: Hawthorns have been thought to possess protective qualities, leading to the planting of hawthorn hedges around homes and gardens to ward off negative influences.
- Love and Marriage: In some cultures, hawthorn flowers are associated with love and the fertility of marriage, possibly because of their abundant and fragrant blooms.
- Happiness: The bright flowers and the association with spring are often linked with happiness and optimism.
- Heart Health: Since hawthorns are known for their medicinal properties, particularly in supporting heart health, they can symbolize well-being and care for one’s physical heart.
WaterThe Chinese hawthorn 'Big Golden Star' requires consistent moisture, especially during its growing season in the spring and summer. Water the plant deeply once every week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons per watering session to ensure the root zone is thoroughly moistened. In the hot summer months or in particularly dry conditions, check the soil more frequently and water as needed to maintain slight moisture; however, be careful not to overwater as this plant does not like soggy conditions. During the fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on rainfall and soil moisture levels.
LightThe Chinese hawthorn 'Big Golden Star' thrives in full sun to partial shade. It performs best when planted in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in regions with extremely hot summers, providing some afternoon shade can prevent scorching of the leaves. Ideally, choose a spot that is bright and sunny in the morning with some protection from the intense late-day sun.
TemperatureThe Chinese hawthorn 'Big Golden Star' is tolerant of a range of temperatures but grows best when the climate is between 60°F and 75°F. It can withstand colder winter temperatures down to about -20°F, making it suitable for many temperate regions. The plant's heat tolerance is good, but extreme temperatures above 95°F may stress it, so some shade or water might be necessary during peak summer heat.
PruningPrune the Chinese hawthorn 'Big Golden Star' to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. The best time for pruning is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and light penetration within the canopy. It's typically not necessary to prune every year; instead, prune every 2 to 3 years to keep the plant looking its best and to remove any excess growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Chinese hawthorn prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A soil mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts works well, ensuring good aeration and moisture retention. The ideal soil pH for this plant should be mildly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.5.
RepottingChinese hawthorn trees should be repotted every 2-3 years to ensure they have enough space to grow. It is best to repot these trees in the late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingChinese hawthorn plants are adaptable to various humidity levels but prefer a moderate humidity range. They typically thrive in an environment with 40% to 60% humidity, similar to the average outdoor conditions in their native habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Chinese hawthorn in a bright spot, water regularly.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, water adequately, protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Crataegus pinnatifida var. major 'Big Golden Star', commonly known as Chinese hawthorn, initiates its life cycle when the seeds germinate in the spring after a period of cold stratification. Seedlings establish themselves, developing a root system and foliage throughout the first growing season. As it enters the juvenile phase, the sapling grows more vigorously, forming a branching structure and increasing in height and girth over several years. Upon reaching maturity, the Chinese hawthorn produces clusters of white flowers in the spring, which are pollinated by insects, leading to the development of the characteristic red pome fruit by autumn. The tree can continue to fruit annually for many years, contributing to the propagation of the species as birds and other animals disperse the seeds. Finally, after decades of growth, the plant will eventually enter senescence, wherein growth slows, and it becomes less productive until it dies.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Crataegus pinnatifida var. major 'Big Golden Star', commonly known as Chinese hawthorn, is typically propagated from seed, which is the most popular method. To propagate Chinese hawthorn by seed, the seeds need to be cold stratified for approximately 3-4 months to break their dormancy. This process mimics natural winter conditions and involves placing the seeds in a refrigerator at about 34-40 degrees Fahrenheit (1-4 degrees Celsius). After cold stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix, typically in the spring. Keep the soil consistently moist and in a location with indirect light until germination occurs, which may take several weeks to a few months depending on conditions. Once seedlings emerge and establish a set of true leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots or direct locations. Seed propagation is generally slow and may take several years for the plants to reach maturity and produce fruit.
