The scale of this tree is perfect for a small garden and here it is growing as a street tree, facing south, receiving the full sun it loves!
Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ is a round headed deciduous tree.
This photo was taken in San Francisco, in mid-April, and you will see why this stunning tree is both extremely popular (meaning it’s available to buy e a s i l y); and, when and where you may want to include this Hawthorn in your garden.
First take a look at this photo.
Now, if you were the homeowner looking to sell this house, wouldn’t this be the time?! But you know what they say about the best time to plant a tree…?
It was 20 years ago! 🙂
Curb Appeal with a Flowering Hawthorn Tree
Light red flowers match color of this home’s exterior and wall detail.
More Info About this English Hawthorn
- General Description: Paul’s Scarlet English Hawthorn is a deciduous tree (looses it’s leaves in winter) with a rounded crown, lobed green leaves, and spiny branches, (though produces few thorns).
- Family: Rose Family (Rosacea)
- Origin: Native Europe and North Africa
- USDA 5 to 10
- Mature Size: 18′ – 25′ high x 15′ – 20′ wide
- Light: Full sun
- Water: Moderate water
- Flowers: Clusters of showy, double, rosy red flowers in spring followed by small, vivid red fruit in autumn.
- Pest Problems and Resistances: This tree is susceptible to fireblight as are other plants in the pome-tribe fruit group of the rose family. I wouldn’t recommend this tree if this is an issue in your area. Fireblight can be controlled only by prompt removal of affected branches (don’t compost) and prune back to healthy wood. Learn more about fireblight here. Leaves can be disfigured by the pear and cherry slug (larvae of a sawfly.)
Cultivation
Hawthorn trees (Crataegus) are sun-lovers, but they are not fussy about soil type or drainage. That said, I would recommend using common planting sense and good technique when planting this tree as I would with all trees. Remember that a tree is an investment and will provide you with year round beauty and structure, and of course habitat.
Happy Gardening
ps: Hawthorns made our List of flowering trees. Take a look here, for more information and to see other excellent tree choices for a small space!