Common Hawthorn
Crataegus monogyna
The Common Hawthorn is a deciduous, thorny shrub or small tree that can reach heights of up to 12 meters. It is characterized by deeply lobed leaves and white, strongly scented flowers that possess a single style. In autumn, the plant produces bright red, mealy pomes containing a single seed, which serve as an important food source for local wildlife.
Details
Habitat function
Important breeding site for hedge-nesting birds (e.g., Red-backed Shrike) and wintering quarters for small mammals.
Nutrient uptake
Moderate nutrient requirements; prefers calcareous, loamy soils.
Food source for
Birds (thrushes, waxwings), insects (wild bees, hoverflies), mammals (dormice).
Human use
Pharmaceutical use for heart failure; wood for tool handles; fruits used for jellies and liqueurs.
Ecology
Ecological role
Central element of hedgerow habitats; provides nesting sites for birds and supports over 150 insect species.
Natural predators
Caterpillars of various moths, aphids, fungal diseases such as hawthorn-juniper rust.
Competitor species
Other shrub-forming woody plants such as Blackthorn or Midland Hawthorn.
Ecosystem service
Erosion control on slopes, windbreak in agricultural landscapes, provision of pollination services by supporting insects.
Threats
Hedge removal, excessive land consolidation, infections by fire blight (Erwinia amylovora).
Scientific profile
Profile
Protection & threats
Main threats
Habitat loss due to river channelization, intensive agriculture, and the removal of hedges for fire blight prevention.