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Crataegus phaenopyrum
Washington Hawthorn
Four-season native tree — spring blossoms, fiery fall color, and winter berries for birds
Select Size
Size GuideDormant bare-root whip, ready for planting
$28.00
Washington Hawthorn is one of the most versatile small ornamental trees native to the eastern United States. Brilliant white flower clusters blanket the canopy in late spring, attracting pollinators. Rich green foliage transitions to dazzling scarlet, orange, and purple tones in autumn. Bright red berries persist well into winter, providing critical food for songbirds — cedar waxwings, robins, and thrushes visit reliably. Its naturally rounded form, tough constitution, and tolerance of urban conditions make it an outstanding specimen or street tree. Excellent for urban and suburban landscapes where year-round visual interest is valued.
Light
Full sun (6+ hours daily)
Water
Average moisture — moderately drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Adaptable — tolerates clay, rocky, alkaline, and urban soils
Key Growing Specifications
Washington Hawthorn
Mature Height
20–35 ft (typically 25–30 ft)
Mature Width
20–35 ft
Growth Rate
Moderate; fast when young, slowing with age
Sun Requirement
Full sun (6+ hours); tolerates light shade
Soil Preference
Moist, well-drained loam; adaptable to most soils
Moisture Tolerance
Moderately drought-tolerant once established
Fertilizer Needs
Minimal; avoid heavy nitrogen (increases fire blight risk)
Best Landscape Use
Specimen tree, street tree, wildlife corridor, pollinator garden
Important Growing Note
Thorny stems not ideal beside high-traffic paths or play areas
Growing Washington Hawthorn
Light
Full sun (6+ hours daily)
Watering
Average moisture — moderately drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Adaptable — tolerates clay, rocky, alkaline, and urban soils
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zones 4–8
Spacing
20–25 ft apart
Fruiting
Persistent red berries fall through winter
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Washington Hawthorn
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