Crataegus monogyna is native to Europe and North Africa. It is a common species in many temperate and subtropical regions, where it grows spontaneously in woods, hedges, and along road edges.
Crataegus monogyna is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach a height of 3-7 meters. It has a compact, branching form with spiny branches. The leaves are oval or lobed in shape, with serrated edges, and are dark green during the growing season, turning yellow, orange, or red in autumn. The bark is gray and tends to peel with age.
Flowering occurs in late spring or early summer. The flowers are small, white or slightly pink, and cluster in corymb inflorescences. They emit a delicate fragrance and are very attractive to pollinating insects. After flowering, the hawthorn produces red or orange fruits, resembling small apples, called haws. These fruits ripen in autumn and persist on the plant throughout the winter.
Crataegus monogyna is adapted to a variety of environmental conditions. It thrives in well-drained soils, ranging from sandy to clayey, and can tolerate a range of moisture conditions. It prefers sunny or partially shaded locations. It is a cold-hardy plant that can withstand low temperatures and frosts. It is often used as a hedge plant and for naturalizing edges and slopes.
Crataegus monogyna is valued for its ornamental appeal and its ability to provide shelter and food for wildlife. The fruits are edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and infusions. Additionally, Crataegus monogyna has a long tradition of use in folk medicine for its cardiotonic and sedative properties. The plant is also known for its ability to form dense, impenetrable hedges, making it ideal for creating natural barriers.
