Downy hawthorn (Crataegus caesa)

Family: Rosaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Crataegus caesa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Midges. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet taste and a fair fruit to seed ratio, it has a mealy texture, is fairly juicy and makes very pleasant eating. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; A good size fruit, about 20mm in diameter, with a sweet taste and a fair fruit to seed ratio, it has a mealy texture, is fairly juicy and makes very pleasant eating.; It ripens in mid to late September and can hang on the tree for several weeks.; The fruit can be used in making pies, preserves, etc, and can also be dried for later use.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)