Cockspur Thorn (Crataegus crus-galli)
The Cockspur Thorn is an undemanding large shrub which also grows well in containers for mobile use. Birds are attracted by its bright red fruits.
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Appearance
The Cockspur Thorn is an undemanding large shrub which also grows well in containers for mobile use. Birds are attracted by its bright red fruits.
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Flowers
Flowering period V-VI, attractive white corymbs.
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Bark
Grey or grey-green bark peeling off in large flakes. Branches are purple or red-brown.
Application
Tip afforestation, screening, forage for honey-bees, public areas, parks, urban areas, roadside verges, car parks, pedestrian precincts, backyards, roof-gardens, container plants, private parks, gardens, front gardens, verandas
Native regions
Eastern North America
Location parameters
Light: sunny to slightly shady, temperature: warm to normal, soil: dry to moist, soil structure: firm to loose, soil depth: medium to very deep, soil quality: medium, pH value: 6.0 to 7.0
Demands
Fairly undemanding
Growth
Height of growth: 5m to 7m, spread: 3m to 8m, growth habits: tree-like, shrubby, spherical, semi-spherical, open-crowned
Leaves
Obovate, leathery leaves, 2-8cm long, 1.5-5cm wide, leaf stem 0.5-1.5cm long. Double-toothed edge. Leaves are green above and pale green below, turning brown-red or orange in autumn.
Flowers
Flowering period V-VI, attractive white corymbs.
Fruits
Pale red, round apple-like fruit, 1-1.5cm wide, with red flesh. Long-lasting.
Bark
Grey or grey-green bark peeling off in large flakes. Branches are purple or red-brown.
Roots
Deep-rooting with extensive root system