Common hawthorn

Common Hawthorn

©Chris Gomersall/2020VISION

Redwing with hawthorn berry

Redwing feeding on hawthorn berries ©Chris Gomersall/2020VISION

Common hawthorn

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Scientific name: Crataegus monogyna
In May, our hedgerows burst into life as common hawthorn erupts with creamy-white blossom, colouring the landscape and giving this thorny shrub its other name of 'May-tree'.

Top facts

Stats

Height: up to 15m

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

January to December

About

In May, common hawthorn erupts with masses of creamy-white blossom, colouring our hedgerows. During the autumn and winter, red fruits known as 'haws' appear. Common hawthorn is a rich habitat for all kinds of wildlife, from hawthorn shield bugs and yellowhammers that feed on the haws, to wood mice and slow worms that shelter in the thorny thickets.

What to look for

Common hawthorn has shiny leaves, divided into three to seven pairs of lobes, and five-petalled, sweet-smelling flowers. It can be distinguished from the similar Midland hawthorn by its more deeply lobed leaves and the fact that it only has a single seed in each fruit.

Where to find

Widespread.

Did you know?

Common hawthorn is also known as 'May thorn', 'May blossom' and 'Quick thorn' and features in many traditional May-time celebrations; for example, the flowers were used to make garlands for May Day.

The Wildlife Trusts work closely with farmers and landowners to ensure that our wildlife is protected and to promote wildlife-friendly practices.