Red Haw
Crataegus lobulata
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
Pl. 67A8 — Crataegus lobulata
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IOverview
Overview
Red Haw, scientifically known as Crataegus lobulata, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the northeastern and north-central United States, including Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, and parts of Ontario in Canada. This plant thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure. It can grow up to 9 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit, making it a valuable resource for both wildlife and human consumption. One distinctive feature of the Red Haw is its lobed leaves, which contribute to its ornamental appeal beyond its culinary use.
Quick answers
What is Red Haw?
Red Haw, scientifically known as Crataegus lobulata, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the northeastern and north-central United States, including Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, and parts of Ontario in Canada.
What is Red Haw used for?
Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Red Haw
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Crataegus species, including Red Haw, have been traditionally used in European herbal medicine to support immune function. A decoction of the leaves and flowers may help bolster the body's defenses during seasonal changes.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but involves flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins which exhibit antioxidant properties, potentially supporting immune health.
- Red Haw is traditionally used in herbal medicine to aid digestion. A tea made from the leaves and flowers may help alleviate digestive discomfort.
Crataegus species contain flavonoids such as hyperoside and rutin, which have been shown to support gastrointestinal motility and reduce spasms.
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.
Red Haw support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Red Haw thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to wet soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions and can grow up to 9 meters tall. For optimal fruit production, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining. Propagate through seeds or by cuttings. Given its native range across northeastern and midwestern United States and parts of Canada, Red Haw adapts well to similar climates.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
9.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Red Haw for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Red Haw in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Red Haw saplings, garden gloves, spade or shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with moist, well-draining soil; amend heavy clay with sand if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings from containers into your garden bed, spacing them about 6 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells and prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune annually to remove dead, weak, or crossing branches; harvest fruit when ripe, usually in fall.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting winter protection in colder regions.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Red Haw can be eaten raw or used in cooking. It is often incorporated into jams and jellies due to its tart flavor. The fruit can also be dried for later use. SKIP
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
18 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
18 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 18 native
Broader regions
native:Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Massachusetts, Rhode I., Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Masachusettes
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, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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