Common hawthorn

In May, our hedgerows burst into life as Common hawthorn erupts with creamy-white blossom, colouring the landscape and giving this thorny shrub its other name of 'May-tree'.

Species information

Statistics

Height: up to 15m

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

January to December

About

In May, Common hawthorn erupts with masses of creamy-white blossom, colouring our hedgerows. During the autumn and winter, red fruits known as 'haws' appear. Common 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

Common hawthorn has shiny leaves, divided into three to seven pairs of lobes, and five-petalled, sweet-smelling flowers. It can be distinguished from the similar Midland hawthorn by its more deeply lobed leaves and the fact that it only has a single seed in each fruit.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

Common hawthorn is also known as 'May thorn', 'May blossom' and 'Quick thorn' and features in many traditional May-time celebrations; for example, the flowers were used to make garlands for May Day.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts work closely with farmers and landowners to ensure that our wildlife is protected and to promote wildlife-friendly practices. By working together, we can create Living Landscapes: networks of habitats stretching across town and country that allow wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.