🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Yellow Hawthorn produces edible fruits, which can be eaten raw or cooked into jams, jellies, and sauces. The flowers and young leaves are also edible. Medicinally, it is used to support cardiovascular health. In permaculture, it serves as a hedgerow species, providing habitat for wildlife and acting as a windbreak. Its thorny nature makes it effective for creating living fences. It is a good choice for erosion control on slopes.
Permapeople description
Crataegus flava, also known as the Summer Haw, is a species of hawthorn native to the southeastern United States. It's a shrub or small tree with yellow fruit.
Botanical description
Crataegus flava, the Yellow Hawthorn, is a shrub or small tree typically reaching heights of 15-20 feet. It is characterized by its thorny branches and deciduous leaves that are obovate to elliptic in shape, often with serrated edges. The leaves are a dull green color. The plant produces white flowers in corymbs in the spring, which are followed by yellowish to reddish-orange pomes (fruits) that ripen in the fall. The fruit is approximately 1/2 inch in diameter. Bark is gray and becomes furrowed with age. Native to the Southeastern United States.
Companion planting
Hawthorns are generally considered good companions for other native trees and shrubs. Avoid planting near plants susceptible to common hawthorn pests and diseases, such as fire blight. It can be used to create hedgerows to protect more sensitive plants.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically achieved through seed. Seed germination can be challenging due to seed dormancy, often requiring stratification. Cuttings are possible but can be difficult. Grafting onto other Crataegus species is also an option.
History and traditions
Historically, various Hawthorn species have been used in traditional medicine for heart ailments and as a general tonic. In folklore, Hawthorns are often associated with protection and fairy lore. The fruits and leaves have been used for food and beverages. The wood is hard and has been used for tool handles and small wooden items. Crataegus flava, being a southeastern species, would have been utilized by indigenous peoples for similar purposes.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in spring (April-May). Fruit ripens in the fall (September-October). Planting is best done in the dormant season (late fall or early spring). Pruning should also be done during the dormant season to shape the tree and remove any dead or damaged branches.