Pollination Info for Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum)

Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) is a tree or shrub that belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. It is native to the southeast United States, but it is also cultivated for its ornamental value in other parts of the country. This plant is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide.

Washington Hawthorn produces small, fragrant, white flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are hermaphroditic, which means they have both male and female reproductive structures. They are also protogynous, which means the female parts mature before the male parts, preventing self-pollination.

The flowers of Washington Hawthorn are pollinated by insects, such as bees, flies, and butterflies. These insects are attracted to the sweet fragrance of the flowers and the nectar they produce. As the insects feed on the nectar, they inadvertently transfer pollen from the male parts of the flower to the female parts, enabling fertilization to occur.

Washington Hawthorn produces red, berry-like fruit in the fall. The fruit is edible and is a favorite food source for many birds. The seeds within the fruit can be dispersed by birds, which allows for the plant to spread and colonize new areas.

In conclusion, Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) is an ornamental tree that provides valuable habitat and food for wildlife. Its small, fragrant flowers are pollinated by insects, which allows for fertilization and the production of fruit. The fruit is consumed by birds, which helps to disperse the seeds and promote the growth of new plants.

Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) FAQ

What is Washington Hawthorn?

Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) is a deciduous flowering tree that is native to the Eastern United States.

What does a Washington Hawthorn tree look like?

A mature Washington Hawthorn tree can typically grow up to 30 feet tall with a spread of 20-25 feet. The tree has a rounded shape with a dense crown and glossy green leaves that turn orange or red in the fall. It also produces white, fragrant flowers in late spring and early summer, and small red fruit in the fall.

What are the growing requirements for Washington Hawthorn?

Washington Hawthorn prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is also tolerant to a range of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam. This tree is also drought-tolerant once established and requires little maintenance.

Can Washington Hawthorn tolerate extreme temperatures?

Yes, Washington Hawthorn is a hardy tree that can tolerate extreme temperatures. It can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F and as high as 100°F. It is also tolerant to wind and salt spray, making it a good choice for coastal areas.

What are the benefits of planting a Washington Hawthorn tree?

Washington Hawthorn is popular for its ornamental value as a beautiful flowering tree, but it also has several practical benefits. The dense crown provides shade, making it a great choice for landscaping and for providing homes with shade in the summer. In addition, the small berries produced by the tree provide a food source for birds and other wildlife.

How do I care for my Washington Hawthorn tree?

Washington Hawthorn requires little maintenance once established, but it should be watered regularly during the first year after planting to help it establish roots. Pruning can also be done in the early spring to shape the tree and remove any dead or diseased branches. It is also important to monitor for pests and diseases, such as hawthorn rust and fire blight, and treat them promptly if they are present.

Planting & Care for Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum)

Planting:

• Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the tree.
• Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove air pockets.
• Water thoroughly after planting.

Care:

• Water the tree regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any diseased, damaged, or crowded branches.
• Inspect the tree regularly for pests and diseases.

Additional Tips:

• Washington Hawthorn is drought-tolerant once established, but will benefit from occasional deep watering during dry periods.
• A layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Do not plant Washington Hawthorn near sidewalks as the tree has thorns that can be hazardous to pedestrians.
• Do not over-prune as this can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to disease.