Scarlet Haw (Crataegus pedicellata)

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

Crataegus pedicellata is a deciduous Shrub growing to 7 m (23ft) by 7 m (23ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen in 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 but dry and mealy. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; A very variable species, especially in its fruit which ranges considerable in size and quality.; Up to 10mm long and pear shaped, the flesh is sweet but dry and mealy.; Another report says that the fruit is up to 20mm in diameter and we have often seen fruits this size, or even a bit larger.

Habitat & North American Range

Self-sown in hedges and rough ground in south-eastern England. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)