Russian Hawthorn

Crataegus ambigua

krah-TEE-gus am-BIG-yoo-uh
15 to 25 ft.
10 to 15 ft.
Add To Favorite Plants
 

low to very low

white

late May through early June

15 to 25 ft.

10 to 15 ft.

No

Russia

sun

USDA zones 4-8

hardy to 9,500 ft.

Russian hawthorn is a small, beautiful, drought-tolerant tree with interesting characteristics throughout the year.

In spring, after the small, glossy green leaves emerge, it explodes with numerous clusters of bright white flowers. By August, the flowers mature into vibrant red fruit. As the leaves turn yellow in fall, the fruit ages to a rusty red color.

Its upright branches have a gnarled and irregular branching habit, bearing 1/4 to 1/2 inch long thorns. Russian hawthorn's branching pattern and ridged bark create a pleasing structure in winter.

Russian hawthorn is a fantastic small tree for dry areas. Out of all the hawthorns, it has the brightest, glossiest red fruit. 

low to very low

white

late May through early June

15 to 25 ft.

10 to 15 ft.

No

Russia

sun

USDA zones 4-8

hardy to 9,500 ft.

This tree is growing very well in the very low water zone at the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden. It offers ornamental value throughout the growing season. 

Prune when young to achieve desired shape when mature.