Crataegus persimilis 'Prunifolia Splendens'
A deciduous tree, up to around 7m high, with a rounded then spreading habit, stout thorns and glossy, broadly oval-shaped leaves that turn warm shades of orange and yellow in autumn. Dense clusters of small white flowers are produced in spring, followed in autumn by red berries that persist into winter
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green Orange Yellow | Red | ||
| Winter | Red |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Potentially harmful
- Seeds contain toxins so these should be removed if you are considering eating the fruit, usually grown as an ornamental shrub Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Crataegus are deciduous trees and shrubs, usually with spiny branches, lobed or toothed leaves, and clusters of creamy-white flowers followed by red or black fruits. Some have fine autumn colour
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows well in most soils, in sun or partial shade. Dislikes waterlogging
Propagation
Propagate by grafting in winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars, aphids and hawthorn button top midge
Diseases
May be susceptible to fireblight, honey fungus, crown gall, silver leaf, powdery mildews and leaf spots
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.