Growing Hawthorn (Crataegus ×puberis): A Lesser-Known Native Tree
If you’re looking to add native trees to your landscape, you might have come across Crataegus ×puberis, a hawthorn species that’s as intriguing as it is elusive. This perennial, woody tree represents one of nature’s hybrids within the diverse hawthorn family, offering gardeners a chance to grow something truly unique in their native plant collection.
What Makes This Hawthorn Special?
Crataegus ×puberis is a native tree species found in the lower 48 states, with documented presence in New York. As a hybrid hawthorn, it carries the hardy characteristics typical of the Crataegus genus while maintaining its own distinct identity. Like other hawthorns, this species typically grows as a single-trunked tree reaching heights greater than 13-16 feet, though environmental conditions can sometimes result in a shorter, multi-stemmed growth form.
Geographic Distribution and Native Status
This hawthorn is confirmed to grow naturally in New York, making it a legitimate native choice for gardeners in this region. Being native to the lower 48 states means it has co-evolved with local ecosystems and is naturally adapted to regional growing conditions.
The Reality Check: Limited Information Available
Here’s where things get interesting – and a bit challenging. Crataegus ×puberis appears to be one of those native plants that hasn’t received much attention in horticultural circles. While we know it exists and where it grows, detailed information about its specific growing requirements, wildlife benefits, and garden performance is surprisingly scarce.
This doesn’t necessarily make it a bad choice, but it does mean you’d be somewhat of a pioneer if you decide to grow it!
Should You Plant It?
Reasons to consider it:
- It’s a native species, supporting local ecosystems
- Hawthorns generally provide wildlife benefits through berries and nesting sites
- You’d be growing something unique and uncommon
- Most hawthorns are relatively low-maintenance once established
Potential challenges:
- Limited availability from nurseries
- Lack of specific growing guidance
- Unknown performance characteristics in garden settings
- Difficulty finding reliable sources for planting material
Growing Considerations
Since specific growing information for Crataegus ×puberis is limited, you’d need to rely on general hawthorn care practices. Most hawthorns prefer:
- Full sun to partial shade
- Well-draining soils
- Moderate water once established
- Minimal pruning requirements
However, without species-specific data, there’s some guesswork involved in providing optimal care.
Alternative Native Options
If you’re drawn to native hawthorns but want more reliable information and availability, consider these well-documented alternatives:
- Crataegus mexicana (Mexican hawthorn)
- Crataegus douglasii (Douglas hawthorn)
- Crataegus monogyna (Common hawthorn) – though not native to North America
The Bottom Line
Crataegus ×puberis represents an interesting native option for adventurous gardeners willing to experiment with lesser-known species. While its native status makes it ecologically valuable, the limited available information means you’d be taking a bit of a gardening leap of faith.
If you’re committed to trying this species, work with native plant societies or specialized nurseries who might have experience with rare hawthorns. They could provide the best guidance for successfully growing this intriguing native tree.
