Crataegus laevigata 'Paul’s Scarlet'

Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’: A Beautiful and Hardy Hawthorn Tree

Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’, also known as Midland Hawthorn ‘Paul’s Scarlet,’ English Hawthorn ‘Paul’s Scarlet,’ May, Albespyne, Bird Eagles, Whitethorn, Quicksethorn, Woodland Hawthorn, Double Crimson Flowering Hawthorn, Mayflower, Crataegus levigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet,’ or Crataegus oxyacantha ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ (though the latter name is no longer used), belongs to the Rosaceae family of plants. It is native to Western and Central Europe.

Characteristics:

Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ is a deciduous, thorny shrub or small tree that can grow up to 8 meters or 26 feet in height. It is distinguishable from Crataegus monogyna as its leaves are more shallowly lobed, and its fruits have more than one seed. The branches of ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ are armed with sharp thorns. The foliage of this tree is dark green, and the leaves have glossy, forward-pointing shallow lobes. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow and bronze, adding to the tree’s seasonal appeal.

Flowering and Fruiting:

‘Paul’s Scarlet’ produces attractive hermaphrodite flowers in spring. The flowers appear as corymbs of six to twelve, and each individual flower is double, exhibiting scarlet-colored or dark pink petals. During autumn, the tree bears fruit, known as haws.

**Cultivation of Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’:**

Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ is a highly adaptable and hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including coastal areas and polluted environments. It thrives in both full sun and partial shade and can grow in various soil types. This tree is easy to grow and maintain.

Pests and Pruning:

While generally robust, ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ may be susceptible to pests such as caterpillars, gall mites, aphids, and fire blight. Regular monitoring and appropriate measures, including pruning affected branches, can help manage these issues. Pruning should be carried out after the flowering season is over, and any damaged branches should be removed.

Protection and Care:

When young, it is important to protect Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ from rabbits, which may cause damage to the tree. Implement measures to prevent rabbit browsing until the tree is established.

Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ is a stunning and resilient tree, adding vibrant color and interest to gardens and landscapes. Its double scarlet or dark pink flowers, adaptability, and ease of cultivation make it a popular choice for gardeners of all levels of experience.