Crataegus missouriensis
Crataegus missouriensis
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Pl. 2974 — Crataegus missouriensis
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IOverview
Overview
Crataegus missouriensis, commonly known as the Missouri hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States and parts of North Africa. Found in habitats ranging from Arkansas to Virginia, this plant thrives in moist to wet soils with a pH between 6 and 7.2, making it adaptable to light (sandy), medium, and heavy clay soils. Known for its edible fruit, which can be used in various culinary applications, C. missouriensis is also valued for its ornamental value due to its attractive flowers and berries. One distinctive feature of this plant is its light texture, with an energy rating of 7/10, indicating it requires moderate care and attention.
Quick answers
What is Crataegus missouriensis?
Crataegus missouriensis, commonly known as the Missouri hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States and parts of North Africa. Found in habitats ranging from Arkansas to Virginia, this plant thrives in moist to wet soils with a pH between 6 and 7.
What is Crataegus missouriensis used for?
Traditionally used for stress & anxiety, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Crataegus missouriensis
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Traditional-use note: Crataegus missouriensis appears in herbal sources around calming and relaxation traditions, often as a tincture. PlantSage presents this as ethnobotanical context, not as medical advice.
Traditional context only. This reviewed claim keeps the original moderate confidence level, but avoids treatment, disease, dosage, or guaranteed-effect language.
- Crataegus species, including Missouri hawthorn, have been traditionally used in European herbal medicine to support immune function. A decoction of the fruit may help bolster the body's defenses during seasonal changes.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but involves antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may modulate immune responses.
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.
Crataegus missouriensis support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Crataegus missouriensis thrives in moist to wet soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It prefers a pH range of 6 to 7.2 and is hardy in zones 4-8. This shrub/tree requires partial to full sunlight with a light requirement of 7/10. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. Harvest the fruit for edible use.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub, Tree
Mature size
6.0 m tall
Soil pH
6–7.2
For first-time growers
How to grow Crataegus missouriensis for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Crataegus missouriensis in a beginner-friendly manner, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Crataegus missouriensis plant, garden gloves, a spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and workable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6 and 7.2, and loosen it to a depth of about 30 cm.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants in early spring or fall, ensuring they are placed at the same depth as they were in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth begins to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Crataegus missouriensis is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is typically consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the specific preparation methods as details are not provided.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe16 regions
native (16)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaCyprusDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia3 regions
native (3)GeorgiaIraqPalestine
Africa1 region
native (1)Algeria
Broader regions
native:Missouri, North Carolina, Arkansas, Virginia, Tennessee, Baltic States, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is.
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
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
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