Also known as Apple Haw · River-Flat Hawthorn · Western Mayhaw
Riverflat Hawthorn (Crataegus opaca) is a small, ornamental tree native to the southeastern United States, featuring attractive white flowers and red fruit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and fruiting, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained, especially when young. Reduce watering for established trees in periods of adequate rainfall.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
50% intensity
Adaptable to a range of temperatures, typically hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Protect from extreme heat and frost during establishment.
Low
25% intensity
Generally requires minimal fertilization. Feed only if growth appears weak or soil is nutrient-poor, using a balanced, slow-release formula in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
For established trees, reduce watering frequency, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings. Proper drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This promotes good air circulation and tree structure.
Light pruning can be done after flowering to maintain shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the tree.
Propagate from seed in autumn, or take semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Seeds require a period of cold stratification. Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining medium.
Patience is key for successful germination and rooting.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in early spring before growth begins. Use a well-draining potting mix. For mature trees, repotting is generally not necessary unless root-bound.
Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the previous one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Riverflat Hawthorn (Crataegus opaca)
Where Riverflat Hawthorn (Crataegus opaca) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Crataegus |
| Species | Crataegus opaca |
Similar in genus Crataegus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
