Crataegus laevigata 'Paul's Scarlet' | Crimson Hawthorn Tree

Season

Features

Spring

Profuse deep pink double flowers resembling cherry blossoms.

Summer

Glossy green foliage forming a dense canopy.

Autumn

Golden-bronze foliage and bright red haws (berries) for birds.

Winter

Bare branches offer a striking architectural shape.

Feature

Benefit

Perfect for small gardens

Compact size fits well in urban spaces.

Year-round beauty

Spring flowers, lush summer foliage, autumn berries, and sculptural winter branches.

Extremely hardy

Thrives in clay, sandy, and loamy soils.

Wildlife-friendly

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, and birds feast on its berries.

Pollution-tolerant

A great choice for urban gardens.

Step

Instructions

Planting Time

Bare-root: November–March Container-grown: Year-round planting.

Spacing

Space 4 metres apart for multiple trees or hedging.

Sunlight Position

Prefers full sun to partial shade for best flowering.

Watering

Water regularly in the first year, then only during extended dry periods.

Soil Type

Grows well in clay, sandy, loamy, and well-drained soils. Avoid waterlogged areas.

Fertilising

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring.

Mulching

Spread a 5–7 cm layer of organic mulch around the base.

Issue

Solution

Pests

Generally pest-free, but may attract aphids or caterpillars. Use natural predators like ladybirds or rinse leaves with water.

Diseases

Can be affected by fire blight or leaf spot. Ensure good airflow and remove affected branches.

Pruning

Minimal pruning required. Remove dead/diseased wood in winter and shape lightly after flowering.

Wildlife

Benefits

Pollinators

Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.

Birds

Autumn berries provide a valuable food source.

Habitat

Dense branches offer nesting sites and shelter.