Hawthorn
Crataegus monogyna
Also called May tree, Quickthorn and Common hawthorn
Garden plant · TreesCut it as a hedge and it is impenetrable within four years; leave it and it is a small tree that outlives you. Decide which before you plant, because the hedge has to be cut from the start.
Care at a glance
- Ease
- Easy
- Water
- Every 8 daysWater the ground — water at the base, in the morning, not over the leaves.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Feed
- Not needed
- Humidity
- Average
- Hardiness
- Very hardy RHS H7, to -25°C
- Size
- 6 m tall · 6 m across
- Lifecycle
- Tree
- Origin
- Europe, North Africa and south-west Asia
Is it safe for pets and people?
PetsSafe for pets
PeopleHarmful if eaten
The seeds inside the fruit. Safe to eat: the ripe flesh, once the seeds are out.
Checked against ASPCA and RHS on 2026-08-03.
A guide, not veterinary or medical advice. If a pet or a person has eaten a plant and you are worried, call your vet or doctor now — don’t wait for signs to appear. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.