November Plant of the Month

This autumn has seen plenty of berries (haws) on our native hawthorn. Usually seen as hedging in the countryside, the cutting of a hedge can limit the number of fruits but, when left to grow as trees, the results can be spectacular.

Crataegus monogyna has dark green, lobed, glossy foliage that sets off the bunches of single white flowers in May (known as May blossom) which are followed by small, dark red haws. Wonderful food for birds, which also like to nest in its branches as its sharp thorns give protection. Leaves turn yellow and bronze in the autumn before falling.

Tolerant of a wide range of situations and soil conditions. As a tree, expect a height and spread of 5 x 4m in 20 years.

Posts from the blog:

Adding annuals

A selection of recommended annuals.

The bees are a’ buzzing!

The garden is alive with bees as they gather pollen from a whole host of flowers.

Unfurling ferns

Take the opportunity to get close up to your ferns and admire the fascinating structures that exist within this family of ancient plants.

Plant sleuth

This mystery plant had leaves that were still lush in October but with no sign of any flowers to give me a lead.