Holmes' hawthorn
Crataegus holmesianafam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 719E — Crataegus holmesiana
Crataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesianaCrataegus holmesiana
IOverview
Overview
Holmes' hawthorn (Crataegus holmesiana) is a tree or shrub native to the northeastern and north-central United States, including Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, and New York. It thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure. Known for both its edible fruit and medicinal properties, this plant has been utilized by various cultures for centuries. One distinctive feature of Holmes' hawthorn is its adaptability; it can grow in a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Its hardiness ranges from zone 4 to 8, making it suitable for gardens across much of the northern United States.
Quick answers
What is Holmes' hawthorn?
Holmes' hawthorn (Crataegus holmesiana) is a tree or shrub native to the northeastern and north-central United States, including Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, and New York. It thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Cardiac Support
hearttincture
Traditional use for heart health.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Holmes' hawthorn thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to wet soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions like its native range across the northeastern United States and parts of Canada. This tree or shrub can reach a height of 10 meters and is known for its edible fruit. For propagation, consider using seeds or cuttings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Holmes' hawthorn for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Holmes' hawthorn in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Holmes' hawthorn sapling, garden gloves, a spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring before new growth starts or in late fall after leaves have dropped.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; loosen the topsoil to about 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Dig a hole twice as wide but no deeper than the root ball, place the sapling in, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist; mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly during dry spells, especially when young. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune annually to remove dead or crossing branches; harvest fruit for culinary use after they turn bright red.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Holmes' hawthorn is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often harvested when ripe and consumed fresh, though it can also be dried for later use. The fruit can add a tangy flavor to jams, jellies, and preserves.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 17 native
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Rhode I., Vermont, Wisconsin, Masachusettes, New Hampshire
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Growing zone
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 719e5997-0e5c-444b-a011-20004fbf7b92
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