Season

Features

Spring

Soft green, deeply lobed foliage adds delicate texture to the canopy.

Summer

Glossy green foliage forms a tidy, upright canopy.

Autumn

Small fruits transition from yellow-orange to red; foliage may develop golden tones.

Winter

Feature

Benefit

Distinctive foliage

Deeply lobed leaves add soft texture and stand out from typical hawthorns.

Seasonal colour

Offers blossom in spring, ornamental fruit in autumn, and a clean winter silhouette.

Wildlife-friendly

Supports pollinators with spring flowers and provides food for birds in autumn.

Rare hybrid

A unique and less commonly planted ornamental tree for collectors or standout borders.

Easy to grow

Hardy, tolerant of various soil types, and low-maintenance once established.

Step

Instructions

Planting Time

Bare-root: November–March. Container-grown: Can be planted year-round.

Spacing

Allow 4–5 metres between trees to accommodate mature spread.

Sunlight Position

Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.

Watering

Water regularly during establishment. Drought-tolerant once mature.

Soil Type

Grows well in well-drained soils including loam, clay, and sandy types. Avoid waterlogged areas.

Fertilising

Not usually necessary. In poor soils, apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring.

Mulching

Add a 5–7 cm layer of organic mulch around the base, avoiding direct contact with the trunk.

Issue

Solution

Pests

Generally pest-free, but may occasionally attract aphids or caterpillars. These can usually be managed by encouraging natural predators like ladybirds.

Diseases

Can be susceptible to fire blight or rust in humid conditions. Prune affected branches and ensure good air circulation.

Pruning

Requires little pruning. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter. Light shaping can be done after flowering if needed.

Wildlife

Benefits

Pollinators

Spring flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Birds

Autumn fruit offers a seasonal food source for birds like blackbirds and thrushes.

Habitat

Branching structure provides shelter and perching spots for small birds and garden wildlife.