How to identify Parsley Hawthorn (Crataegus marshallii)

How to identify Parsley Hawthorn (Crataegus marshallii)

Parsley Hawthorn, also known as Hawthorn

Parsley Hawthorn is a small deciduous tree or shrub that typically reaches a height of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) with a similar spread. It features slender, thorny branches and bright green, deeply lobed leaves that resemble parsley. In the spring, the plant is adorned with clusters of delicate white flowers, which give way to small, bright red berries in the fall. The berry-like fruits persist into winter and are a striking feature against the bare branches of the plant.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Parsley Hawthorn

Slender thorny branches with bright green parsley-like leaves.

Clustered white flowers with vivid red anthers, blooming in April-May.

Bright red 1/3 inch (0.85 cm) pome fruits resembling miniature apples.

1-inch (2.5 cm) ovate leaves with 5-7 serrated lobes, shiny green above.

Smooth gray stems with brown mottles, adorned with sharp thorns.

Detailed Traits of Parsley Hawthorn

Leaf Features

The leaves of parsley Hawthorn are 1 inch (2.5 cm) long and ovate in shape, featuring 5 to 7 short pointed lobes with serrated (toothed) edges. The upper surface is shiny green, while the undersides are paler. They are spirally arranged on long shoots, creating a distinctive pattern. The vein pattern is noticeable, adding to the textured appearance of the leaf. These characteristics are key identifiers for recognizing parsley Hawthorn.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Parsley Hawthorn flowers are striking with their one-inch (2.5 cm) diameter white blooms, featuring red anthers that provide a vivid contrast. These blossoms appear in clusters during the blooming period from April to May. Each flower comprises multiple petals, arranged symmetrically around a central cluster of stamens. This elegant assembly contributes not only to the plant's visual appeal but also serves as a key identification marker. The flowers are known for their subtle, pleasant scent, further enhancing their allure.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stems of parsley Hawthorn are smooth, thin, and adorned with sharp thorns. They exhibit a gray coloration interspersed with mottles of brown, contributing to their unique appearance. Typically, the stems are slender, allowing for easy identification in comparison to thicker, woodier counterparts. The stems branch frequently, creating a dense, thorny structure that is characteristic of this species. The combination of gray and brown hues, along with the thorny texture, are key identifiers for parsley Hawthorn.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of parsley Hawthorn is a bright red pome, measuring approximately 1/3 inch (0.85 cm) in diameter. It typically contains 1-5 hard seeds, known as pyrenes, which have a resemblance to the 'stones' found in plums, peaches, and similar fruits. This feature is distinctive and essential for identification. The fleshy part of the fruit displays a ripe coloration and presents itself from September to October, providing a key seasonal indicator for recognition. Its texture and look, akin to that of a miniature apple, may appeal to novice enthusiasts for its visual similarity to more familiar fruits.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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