Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

Hawthorn Hedge Plants Description

In spring, Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) bursts into life with an abundance of fragrant white blossoms and green leaves, which subsequently develop into red fruits known as 'haws' during the autumn months. The sharp thorns of Hawthorn make it an effective protective barrier around gardens. Hawthorn hedging is highly beneficial for wildlife, supporting over 150 species of insects and a variety of native birds. Butterflies and bees are frequent visitors in spring, while the red, shiny haws provide a valuable food source for thrushes, blackbirds, blue tits, and yellowhammers from autumn onwards. The dense, thorny foliage also offers birds a secure nesting site and provides shelter and protection from predators for small mammals.

According to the Woodland Trust, Hawthorn is the second most advantageous plant for wildlife, surpassed only by the English Oak. With the exception of very wet soils and fully shaded areas, resilient Hawthorn can thrive in all soil types and conditions, and is particularly hardy in exposed, windy, and coastal locations. Given its rapid growth—between 40-60 cm per year—it should be trimmed after flowering or in autumn, although it is important to check for nesting birds before pruning.

Hawthorn is available in various forms, including bare root, root ball, pot-grown, and instant hedging options for immediate impact. It is also a key species in our Mixed Native Hedging selection. Please note that, in accordance with DEFRA regulations, we are unable to dispatch this species outside of the UK Mainland.

Pruning Advice

Hawthorn needs to be trimmed after flowering in the Summer and again in the Autumn.

Further Information

Our recommended planting densities for each size and root type are listed in the product grid. These should be used as a guide when considering the time you are willing to wait for your hedge to achieve its full appearance. As a general indication, bare root plants can be spaced at 3 to 7 per metre, while cell-grown plants can be spaced between 4 and 6 per metre. For higher densities, consider planting in a double staggered row or a zig-zag pattern.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £7.99 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £14.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £60 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.