Riverflat Hawthorn (Crataegus opaca)

Riverflat Hawthorn (Crataegus opaca) is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to the southeastern United States, with attractive spring flowers and red fruit.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade.

Watering

Moderate to high, consistent moisture preferred.

Soil

Prefers moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to various soil types.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Low to moderate needs.

Care Requirements

Light

Full sun to partial shade.

Tolerates some shade but flowers best in sun.

Water

Moderate to high, consistent moisture preferred.

Water deeply when top inch of soil is dry.

Soil

Prefers moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to various soil types.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures.

Thrives in USDA zones 5-9.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Low to moderate needs.

Fertilize lightly in spring if needed.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Category

Flowering, Fruit, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

4.5-9 m

Spread

3-6 m

Growth Rate

Moderate

Dormancy

Winter dormancy

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Size

1.5-2 cm

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · MayPeak fruit · Aug

FloweringFruiting

Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · SepPeak fruit · Jul

FloweringFruiting

Taxonomy

kingdomPlantae
divisionTracheophyta
classMagnoliopsida
orderRosales
familyRosaceae
genusCrataegus
speciesCrataegus opaca

Toxicity

Toxic for humans

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

Rating: 0/5

Edible

Additional Care Tips

Provide consistent moisture, particularly when young or during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings once established. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Can be shaped for aesthetic purposes or to maintain size, but avoid excessive pruning.

Easily propagated from seed sown in autumn or by grafting. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can also be taken in summer.

Not typically grown in pots. If necessary, repot in early spring before new growth begins, using a well-draining soil mix.

FAQs

What is the best soil for Riverflat Hawthorn?

Riverflat Hawthorn prefers moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to various types including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Good drainage is key to prevent root rot.

How often should I water Riverflat Hawthorn?

Water regularly, especially during its first year and dry spells. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance.

When does Riverflat Hawthorn bloom?

Riverflat Hawthorn typically blooms in spring, producing clusters of white flowers that are attractive to pollinators.

Is Riverflat Hawthorn poisonous to pets?

According to available data, Crataegus opaca is not considered toxic to pets. However, it's always best to prevent pets from ingesting any plant material.

Can Riverflat Hawthorn be pruned?

Yes, pruning is beneficial to remove dead or crossing branches and to shape the tree. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Care Requirements

Light

Full sun to partial shade.

Tolerates some shade but flowers best in sun.

Water

Moderate to high, consistent moisture preferred.

Water deeply when top inch of soil is dry.

Soil

Prefers moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to various soil types.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures.

Thrives in USDA zones 5-9.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Low to moderate needs.

Fertilize lightly in spring if needed.

Additional Care Tips

Provide consistent moisture, particularly when young or during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings once established. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Can be shaped for aesthetic purposes or to maintain size, but avoid excessive pruning.

Easily propagated from seed sown in autumn or by grafting. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can also be taken in summer.

Not typically grown in pots. If necessary, repot in early spring before new growth begins, using a well-draining soil mix.

FAQs

What is the best soil for Riverflat Hawthorn?

Riverflat Hawthorn prefers moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to various types including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Good drainage is key to prevent root rot.

How often should I water Riverflat Hawthorn?

Water regularly, especially during its first year and dry spells. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance.