Crataegus vulsa (Alabama Hawthorn)

Crataegus vulsa (Alabama Hawthorn) is a rose-family shrub that grows wild in the Southeastern United States. Alabama Hawthorn is presently only found in open woods in Georgia and Florida. Alabama Hawthorn is a shrub or small tree with long, straight thorns that yields white flowers in the spring and red or yellow fruit in the fall, similar to other Hawthorns.

Appearance: Alabama Hawthorn is a deciduous tree that typically reaches a height of 15 to 30 feet (4.5 to 9 meters). It has a rounded or irregular crown and may have multiple trunks. The bark is gray or brown with shallow furrows.

Leaves: The leaves of Crataegus alabamensis are alternate, simple, and serrated along the edges. They are typically dark green and have an elliptical or obovate shape. In the fall, the foliage may turn shades of yellow, orange, or red.

Flowers: Alabama Hawthorn produces clusters of white flowers with five petals. The flowers bloom in spring and have a pleasant fragrance. They attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Fruits: After flowering, the tree develops small, red to orange-red pome fruits. These fruits are round or slightly pear-shaped and measure around 0.3 to 0.6 inches (8 to 15 mm) in diameter. They persist on the tree through fall and are an important food source for birds and wildlife.

Landscape Use: Crataegus vulsa can be used in landscaping as an ornamental tree, particularly for native or wildlife gardens. It provides habitat and food for birds and other wildlife species.

Growing Conditions: Alabama Hawthorn thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is adapted to a range of soil types, including clay and loam. It is generally hardy and suitable for USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9.