Featured Tree

Washington Hawthorn: A Blossom Amongst Thorns

Discover the Washington hawthorn, a small ornamental tree offering clusters of white spring blossoms, bright red berries, and brilliant fall color.

August 5, 2015

Close-up of delicate white flowers blooming on a tree branch against a blurred background.

If you’re looking to fill in the open spaces in your yard, or just add a bit of color to your landscaping, the Washington hawthorn is a great option. First introduced to Pennsylvania from Washington, the tree earned its name because of its prominent thorns.

(crataegus phaenopyrum)

A cluster of small white Washington hawthorn flowers with pink-tipped stamens and round buds, set against dark green foliage.

Legend has it that Paul Bunyan used the Washington hawthorn’s branches as a back scratcher. Here are a few things to note if you’re considering adding one to your landscape.

Grows 1-2 feet a year reaching 25-30 feet at maturity.
Versatile tree, growing in a wide variety of hardiness zone (4-8).
Prefers full sun (6 hours of direct sunlight a day).
Drought-tolerant, grows in acidic, alkaline, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained, wet and clay soils.

Clusters of glossy red Washington hawthorn berries on thorny branches with a few golden autumn leaves against a blue sky.

Physical Attributes

Blooms white flowers with reddish-purple leaves.
Produces bright red berries that hang until the winter. It is popular amongst birds.
Develops thorns on its branches, making it an effective barrier.

Do you have a Washington hawthorn in your yard? Share a picture below!