Two-pronged hawthorn

The Two-Styled Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata) together with the Single-Styled Hawthorn forms the pair of the only native hawthorn species in our region. Worldwide, there are almost 1000 different species, mainly native to North America. The two-styled rose family plant is mainly found in the wild in wild field hedges made up of various bushes, but also on rocky slopes and forest edges.

Because the Two-Styled Hawthorn is so robust and undemanding, it grows throughout almost all of Europe – from the Caspian Sea up to Scandinavia. In mountains, you can even find it at altitudes of up to 1000 meters above sea level. It likes sun, is very hardy in winter, and indicates nutrient-rich, slightly moist soils.

The ripe fruits of the Two-Styled Hawthorn are edible – and taste good cooked into jam and compote. They are dark red, have two seeds, and a mealy texture. Birds and small mammals also enjoy eating them.

If you don’t have a Crataegus laevigata in your own garden, you can buy hawthorn extract. Made from the leaves and flowers of the plant, it is said to support the heart and blood vessels as well as promote healthy circulation. It is also credited with a positive effect against stress.

The Two-Styled Hawthorn contains glycosides and various flavonoids, which are classified as antioxidants. Additionally, the ripe fruits are full of valuable carotenoids and vitamin C.

As an irregular shrub or small tree, the deciduous Two-Styled Hawthorn grows up to seven meters tall. It is very popular as a garden tree because it has a uniform, round crown. Caution is advised due to its thorns, which can be up to two and a half centimeters long. Especially in the garden, the Two-Styled Hawthorn scores points as it provides an ecological benefit for insects and birds.

The white, abundant flowers distinguish the Two-Styled Hawthorn from its single-styled relative: they have two to three styles, while its counterpart has only one. The golden chain tree, which blooms at the same time in May, pairs particularly well with it.