Bring four-season beauty and wildlife value to your landscape with Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum), a stunning native U.S. ornamental tree named after Washington, D.C. (not the state). This highly decorative hawthorn delivers year-round interest—reddish-purple spring foliage, glossy green summer leaves, brilliant orange-red fall color, and clusters of bright red berries that persist into winter.

In late spring, the tree is covered in showy white flower clusters, attracting bees and butterflies, followed by edible red berries in fall that birds and small mammals love. The thorny branches make Washington Hawthorn an excellent natural hedge, windbreak, or security planting, while its rugged hardwood adds durability and historic usefulness.

Adaptable, resilient, and beautiful, this tree thrives in a wide range of soils and light conditions, making it a favorite for wildlife gardens, native plantings, and traditional landscapes.

🌱 Why Grow Washington Hawthorn Seeds?

• Native U.S. tree with four-season interest
  
• White spring flowers & bright red edible berries
  
• Attracts pollinators, birds & wildlife
  
• Excellent hedge, windbreak & security tree
  
• Adaptable to many soil types
  
• Hardy and low-maintenance once established

🌿 Growing Tips

• Botanical Name: Crataegus phaenopyrum
  
• Other Names: Crataegus cordata, C. populifolia, C. youngii
  
• Plant Type: Deciduous tree
  
• Height: Up to 25 feet
  
• Spacing: 25 feet
  
• Hardiness Zones: 3–8
  
• Light: Full sun to part shade
  
• Soil: Average; tolerates clay, sand, dry or moist soil

How to Plant:

1. Sow seeds outdoors in fall or cold stratify before spring planting
   
2. Plant seeds about ¼ inch deep
   
3. Keep soil lightly moist until germination
   
4. Medium growth rate once established

🌳 Tip: Best grown in groups for hedgerows or wildlife corridors.

❓Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are the berries edible?
Yes, the red berries are edible raw or cooked and have a mild flavor.

Does Washington Hawthorn have thorns?
Yes, it has sharp thorns, making it ideal for natural security hedges.

Is this tree good for wildlife?
Absolutely—pollinators visit the flowers, and birds and squirrels feed on the berries.

Can it tolerate shade?
Yes, it grows in full sun, part shade, and even full shade.

How long does it take to grow?
It has a medium growth rate and becomes more ornamental as it matures.

Where to Buy Washington Hawthorn Seeds for Sale?
At Seeds World, we offer fresh Washington Hawthorn seeds carefully packaged for strong germination and dependable results. Enjoy fast U.S. shipping and grow a beautiful, wildlife-friendly native tree with confidence.