Letterman’s Hawthorn: A Rare Missouri Native Worth Knowing
If you’re looking for a truly unique native tree for your landscape, Letterman’s hawthorn (Crataegus ×lettermanii) might just be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for. This rare hawthorn hybrid represents one of nature’s more exclusive offerings, with a distribution so limited that it calls only Missouri home.
What Makes This Hawthorn Special?
Crataegus ×lettermanii is a perennial tree that typically grows as a single-stemmed woody plant, reaching heights of 13-16 feet or more under ideal conditions. Like other hawthorns, it can occasionally develop a multi-stemmed growth form or remain shorter depending on environmental factors. This native species is also known by the synonym Crataegus hirtiflora, though you’re unlikely to find it under either name at your local nursery.
Where Does It Grow?
This hawthorn hybrid has one of the most restricted ranges of any North American tree species, being documented only in Missouri. This extremely limited geographical distribution makes it a true botanical treasure of the Show-Me State.
Should You Plant Letterman’s Hawthorn?
Here’s where things get interesting – and a bit complicated. While this native tree would theoretically make a wonderful addition to Missouri landscapes, its extreme rarity presents some challenges:
- Availability: You’re unlikely to find this species at commercial nurseries due to its limited distribution
- Responsible sourcing: If you do locate this plant, ensure it comes from responsibly propagated stock rather than wild collection
- Conservation value: Growing rare natives like this can contribute to conservation efforts when done ethically
Growing Conditions and Care
Unfortunately, specific growing requirements for Crataegus ×lettermanii aren’t well documented in horticultural literature. However, based on its Missouri origins and relationship to other hawthorns, it likely prefers:
- Well-draining soils
- Full sun to partial shade
- Typical Midwestern climate conditions
- USDA hardiness zones suitable for Missouri (likely zones 5-7)
Alternative Native Hawthorns
If you’re drawn to the idea of growing a native hawthorn but can’t source Letterman’s hawthorn responsibly, consider these more widely available native alternatives:
- Downy hawthorn (Crataegus mollis)
- Black hawthorn (Crataegus douglasii)
- Cockspur hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli)
These species offer similar tree structure, spring flowers, and fall berries that benefit wildlife, while being more readily available through native plant nurseries.
The Bottom Line
Crataegus ×lettermanii represents one of those fascinating botanical rarities that reminds us how much diversity exists in our native flora. While it may not be practical for most gardeners to grow due to its limited availability, knowing about such species helps us appreciate the incredible variety of plants that call North America home. If you’re a Missouri gardener with access to responsibly sourced material, this rare hawthorn could be a unique addition to your native landscape – just be sure you’re not contributing to the depletion of wild populations.
For most of us, supporting conservation of rare species like Letterman’s hawthorn means choosing more common native hawthorns that provide similar ecological benefits while leaving the rare ones to thrive in their natural habitats.
