Plant of Merit

Published 1:30 am Thursday, December 1, 2016

What: Crataegus phaenopyrum, or commonly known as Washington hawthorn, it has so many worthy attributes.

Its reddish-purple leaves emerge in the spring, bringing a blast of color to the garden. Clusters of fragrant white flowers follow until ultimately the leaves turn orange and red in the fall, preceding the long-lasting clusters of red fruit. These berries are an important food source for the birds during the winter so, while ornamental, the hawthorn plays an important role in nature.

This tree gets its common name from Washington, D.C., where it was commercially grown in the 1700s. It was finally named in 1883, and is found growing from Virginia to Missouri to Arkansas.

Sun/shade: Washington hawthorn needs full sun.

Size: At maturity, this tree will reach 25 to 30 feet in height and width.

See it: In the Small Tree Walk, on the west side of the Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens’ parking lot. www.evergreenarboretum.com

— Sandra Schumacher