Crataegus x prunifolia Splendens

This tree has glossy green leaves which appear in the spring accompanied by creamy white flowers in May.

The autumn time gives rise to this trees best display, with a glorious show of bright red and orange foliage colour. Small and plentiful shiny red fruits appear towards the end of the summer and remain on the tree into the autumn time, until they are eaten up by the surrounding wildlife.

Crataegus x prunifolia originates in Eastern America, it is a hybrid between Crataegus crus-galli and macracantha and won the Award of Garden Merit in 2002.

This tree is a tough contender, performing well on all soil types, including very wet or indeed dry conditions.

This small tree has a compact crown and as such forms a very tidy and neat canopy at maturity. It is a perfect selection for projects that require year-round interest and should be considered at the very top of the list for exposed or coastal gardens as it is one of the very few ornamental varieties that will tolerate both salt and wind exposure.

Like other Hawthorn varieties, it is a great choice for planting projects which aim to extend floral displays well into the summer; however as a cautionary note, do beware of the long thorns on this species, they need to be handled with care!

Mature height: 3-7m