Product description
This award winning tree is perfect for a small to medium sized garden, where it will add a splash of brilliant colour to your landscape in spring and autumn. The Crataegus Laevigata 'Crimson Cloud' bursts with an abundance of single, pink-red flowers with creamy white centres in May. The flowers are set against a canvas of lush, glossy green foliage, creating a stunning contrast. The leaves are deeply lobed and turn to a bronze and golden yellow in autumn. The autumn season also sees the appearance of a smattering of red haws.
The blossoms are lightly scented and over the summer the flowers will form into small red berries. The fragrance and berries both attract an abundance of butterflies and birds into your garden, adding movement, sound and interest.
Midland Hawthorn Tree is hardy and will tolerate almost any type of soil. It is tough and can be grown in exposed areas, coastal regions, polluted and damp sites. It reaches heights of around 5m with a spread of 4m with a gently arching canopy. The tree prefers full sunshine but will grow in partial shade. As the name suggest, the branches of the tree do have sharp thorns.
This delightful tree has an RHS Award of Garden Merit and was the subject of a poem called ‘The Hawthorn Tree’, written by Willa Cather, a novelist and poet born in Virginia, USA who lived between 1873 - 1947.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune your Crataegus tree in late winter or early spring to shape it and encourage healthy growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and light penetration through the canopy. Keep an eye out for pests or diseases, treating any issues promptly to maintain the tree’s health. With proper care, this hardy tree will reward you with seasonal blossoms and vibrant berries that attract wildlife.
How to Water
Water your Crataegus tree thoroughly after planting and regularly during its first growing season to help establish strong roots. Once established, these trees are quite drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as standing water can lead to root rot. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation and to allow the roots to absorb moisture effectively.
How to Plant
To plant a Crataegus tree, choose a sunny or partially shaded location with well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and slightly deeper than its depth. Enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost before placing the tree in the hole, ensuring that the root collar is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole, firm the soil gently around the roots, and water thoroughly to help the tree settle. Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, ensuring the mulch doesn’t touch the trunk.