Crataegus Prunifolia Tree (12L, 5-6ft)

Crataegus 'Prunifolia' is a lovely small tree, ideal for a small to medium sized garden. It features a rich brown bark and glossy, dark green, oval foliage in the summer. The leaves turn to fiery shades of orange, yellow and copper as autumn approaches. The branches do have long sharp thorns, so children should be careful, but birds will be delighted to use them as protection for their nests.

In May, the tree is smothered in a fabulous display of small white flowers that turn into crimson berries. The berries remain on the tree well into winter, adding colour to an otherwise dull garden. The berries of this Hawthorn tree are extremely popular with honey bees, birds and squirrels and you can expect a large variety of wildlife to visit your garden to collect them for food.

Hawthorn trees are hardy and can tolerate very tough positions, including exposed, coastal, damp and polluted sites, If you are struggling with a difficult garden, this is your tree of choice. Expect a height of 6m and a spread of 5m in a 20 year period. It grows with a spreading, slightly rounded habit.

Crataegus 'Prunifolia' is a fabulous choice as an ornamental tree with wild fruits. It also holds an RHS Award of Garden Merit for its stunning colours, hardiness and all-year round interest that it brings to a home garden.