While it may be hard to believe that a tree can be a member of the rose family, the hawthorn tree is exactly that. Considered invaluable as a hedge, this tree also has many culinary and medicinal properties.
Several varieties of the hawthorn tree have been developed over the years, but the original hawthorn was used historically and is often still used as a hedge. The name actually indicates this usage, and its meaning is an Old English term for “thorny hedge”. Native to Africa, Europe, and Central Asia, this tree along with its hybrids have rapidly gained popularity and are cultivated in most regions of North America.
This tree is not fussy about its habitat; It grows well in sunny conditions as well as partial shade and adapts to most soil types. Its 400-year lifespan only adds to the tree’s remarkable features. A height of 25 feet is normal, with an almost equal spread of up to 20 feet. Most species of the hawthorn tree have spines, some reaching 5 inches in length. Its leaves differ depending on the variety.
Twice a year you’ll find hawthorn in flower, initially displaying tiny white, spherical buds; opening to reveal beautiful white petals and a pink center. The back of the flower contains the beginnings of a seed, which will turn into a bright red berry come fall.
One of the reasons why the hawthorn tree is highly appreciated by landscapers is that it has multiple uses. The berries of the tree have long been used to improve the cardiovascular system. Controlling high blood pressure, helping blood flow in and out of the heart, dilating coronary arteries, and helping the heart utilize essential minerals are examples of hawthorn berry’s medicinal properties. It is also packed with antioxidants that are believed to be more powerful than vitamins A, C and E.
The culinary uses of the hawthorn tree should not be overlooked; once called the “bread and cheese” tree. Its leaves, when chewed, nourish and revitalize the one who eats them, eliminating stomach noises. The leaf buds can be cooked and eaten on their own or added to soups. The berries have long been used to make jellies and jams as they contain their own pectin. Flower buds are attractive as a garnish for food and are also edible.
Adding to the list of value is the wood of the hawthorn tree. The trunk wood is used for carving and the root wood is used to make boxes. When used as firewood, the wood of the hawthorn tree burns at extremely high heat; capable of melting pig iron.
Planting a hawthorn tree can bring many benefits; medicinal, culinary and wood value, not to mention its natural beauty. No wonder it has endured through the centuries as a favored tree.
