The plant around us. Volume 1 The plant around us. Volume I | Page 48

Crategus monogyna
English: Common hawthorn
Spanish: Espino alba
Estonian: Üheemakane viirpuu
The common hawthorn is a deciduous shrub or
small tree 5–14 metres tall, with a dense crown.
The bark is dull brown with vertical orange
cracks. The younger stems bear sharp thorns,
approximately 12.5mm.
An ancient specimen, and reputedly the oldest
tree of any species in France (3th century).
Flowers
The hermaphrodite flowers are produced in late
spring (May to early June in its native area) in
inflorescences of 5-25 together. Each flower is
about 10mm diameter, and has five white petals,
numerous red stamens, and a single style.
The flowers are pollinated by midges, bees and
other insects and later in the year bear numerous
haws.
Leaves
Serrated,
compound,
small.
deciduous,
green, and
Fruit
Tender and reddish
exterior, with a single
seed inside.