Crataegus rotundifolia
IOverview
Overview
Crataegus rotundifolia, commonly known as round-leaved hawthorn, is a deciduous tree or shrub native to northeastern and north-central North America. It thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure. This plant can grow up to 6 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-8. Known for its edible fruit, which are small and typically used for jams and jellies, C. rotundifolia also boasts distinctive white flowers that appear in spring, followed by bright red berries in autumn. Its adaptability to various soil types makes it a valuable addition to gardens and natural landscapes.
What is Crataegus rotundifolia?
Crataegus rotundifolia, commonly known as round-leaved hawthorn, is a deciduous tree or shrub native to northeastern and north-central North America. It thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure. This plant can grow up to 6 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-8.
What is Crataegus rotundifolia used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, stress & anxiety. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context- Crataegus species have a long history in traditional European medicine for aiding digestion, particularly after meals. A tea made from the fruit or leaves is commonly used.
The mechanism involves flavonoids and triterpenes which may stimulate digestive secretions and improve gut motility. However, specific pathways are not fully characterised.
▲ ModerateDigestion → - Traditional-use note: Crataegus rotundifolia appears in herbal sources around calming and relaxation traditions, often as a tea. 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.
▲ ModerateStress & anxiety →
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftVCultivation
Cultivation
How to grow Crataegus rotundifolia for the first time
Start with planting Crataegus rotundifolia in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Crataegus rotundifolia plant, garden gloves, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. For containers, use a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from the nursery into your garden or container. Dig a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist, especially during dry spells. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches, promoting healthy growth. Fruit can be harvested in fall but is not commonly picked.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too much shade, and neglecting regular pruning are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
VIIDistribution
36 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
36 native · 1 introducedIXSpecimen 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.
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