Taxonomy
Crataegus monogyna | Hawthorn | Sceach geal
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Not protected
Native status
Native
Species Biology
Identification
Flowers: May - June; clusters of white or rarely pink flowers
Fruits: Red berries
Twigs & bark: Twigs grey, smooth with spines; bark grey/brown and fissured when
mature
Habitat
Hedgerows and open woods and scrub in a wide range of soils.
Life cycle
Perennial
Ex-situ conservation
Not known
Use
Food crop
Vegetative nature
Woody
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Irish distribution
Widespread and common, often planted.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
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Further information
Traditionally used for hedge laying, providing an effective barrier to livestock. The berries (haws)are commonly made into jellies, jams, syrups and used to make wine. Haws are important for wildlife in winter, particularly thrushes and waxwings. It was believed to be a fairy tree and placing a sprig of hawthorn in the milking parlour would ensure the higher production of creamier milk.