Crataegus prunifolia | Broad-leaved Cockspur Thorn
An interesting, small garden tree with a rounded habit. The Crataegus prunifolia has long, sharp thorns on its branches and is known as the thorniest of thorns. It has clusters of small, white flowers in May followed by shiny, dark green, oval leaves. In autumn the leaves turn red, orange and copper. The variety of colour along with the abundance of lovely red berries makes the Crataegus prunifolia a spectacular sight. This tree will grow in most soil and conditions and requires very little attention. It is ideal for both coastal and urban gardens.
According to folklore, a hawthorn tree was the abode of fairies and stood at the threshold of the Otherworld. The rules were quite clear: anyone who cut down a fairy tree was doomed to perish. Although branches were gathered on May Day, they were never brought inside the house at any other time.
