Midland Hawthorn | Reserves and species

Scientific Name:

Crataegus laevigata

Midland Hawthorn is a shrub of ancient hedgerows and woodland edges, and is also known as 'Woodland Hawthorn'. In May, our hedgerows burst into life as Midland Hawthorn erupts with masses of pinky-white blossom. During the autumn and winter, red fruits known as 'haws' appear. Midland Hawthorn is a rich habitat for all kinds of wildlife from Hawthorn Shield Bugs and Yellowhammers that feed on the haws, to Wood Mice and Slow Worms that shelter in the thorny thickets.

How to identify:

Midland Hawthorn can be distinguished from the much more frequent Common Hawthorn by its shallow-lobed leaves and the fact that it has two seeds in each fruit. Its flowers also have a much fouler smell. Midland Hawthorn is more frequently found in woodland.

Where to find it:

Found in central and southern England.

How people can help:

Our hedgerows support all kinds of wildlife, providing vital food and shelter. But these habitats are disappearing with the intensification of agriculture. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with farmers, landowners and developers to promote wildlife-friendly practices, such as planting hedges and leaving field margins. We have a vision of a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country, which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.

Statistics:

Height: 8-12m

Conservation status:

Common.

Did you know?:

Much folklore and myth surrounds hawthorn trees: it is considered bad luck to cut them, except when they are in flower; even then, sprigs should not be brought into the house.

Seasons:

Spring

Summer

Autumn

Winter

When to see

Start date:

January

End date:

December

Image: