Thornless Hawthorne
Thornless Cockspur Hawthorne - Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis - Perennial
This prolific tree bears very large fruits (haws) which are medicinal and beautiful. This deciduous tree can be pruned into the shape you want and it helps it to bear heavily.
The dark green foliage contrasts nicely with the beautiful white spring blooms. Pollinators love these flowers. They give way to bright red hawthorn berries. Fall leaves turn an incredible bronze color.
The fruits are edible and are very tart. Do not eat the seeds, they are from the Rose family and like apples, the seed contains cyanide. The medicinal uses of Hawthorne are far and wide. This tree is drought tolerant, can take full sun or part shade and will benefit from some watering.
Hardy to Zone 4. You can crush the dried fruits to break up the seed or plant the whole berry. Plant them in pots so they can establish themselves there to plant out as young trees. They can be overwintered in pots as well. Considered fast-growing but they can take their time to germinate so don't give up!