Crataegus monogyna; ‘Hawthorn’

The leaves appear early in March and are well developed by the time the flowers open in mid may, With the scent of the flowers filling the area from May to well into June.

Slow growth, but rapid in thickness,  abundant branches and a thick mat of twigs, making the tree valuable for use as a wind breaker or in a tree belt.

Hawthorn is tolerant of all but extremely wet or acidic soils. The preferred soil is rich stiff loamy with a moderate amount of moisture.

Crataegus monogyna Endures wind and cold and can will grow densely in exposed conditions.

Hawthorn is seen as a pioneer of forests, woodlands and a component of scrubs on all types of soil except peat marsh or very dry conditions.

It associates in mixed communities with bramble, briar, holly and other scrub plants. Although it is best known as a hedge plant and forms the vast majority of field hedges throughout the country.

This hawthorn was found in damp soil conditions in Chorlton park, there were six others in a clearing all of similar height and looking healthy.