Whitethorn, or English hawthorn, is a small tree that can be utilized under power lines. It may be difficult to find in nurseries. Typical of hawthorns, this species has white flowers in spring, followed by red fruits. The stems bear 1 inch long thorns.
- Family (English) Rose
- Family (botanic) Rosaceae
- Planting site Residential and parks, Under utility lines, Wide median
- Tree or plant type Tree
- Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
- Native locale Non-native
- Size range Small tree (15-25 feet)
- Mature height 15-20 feet
- Mature width 15-20 feet
- Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily)
- Hardiness zones Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7
- Soil preference Moist, well-drained soil
- Tolerances Alkaline soil, Dry sites
- Season of interest mid spring, late spring, late summer
- Flower color and fragrance Pink, Red, White
- Shape or form Broad, Round
- Growth rate Moderate
- Transplants well No
- Planting considerations Dangerous thorns, May be difficult to find in nurseries
- Wildlife Insect pollinators, Migrant birds
- Has cultivars Yes
