Hawthorn

overall appearance

Deciduous shrub or small tree reaching 15-30 feet in height with dense, thorny branches and distinctive spring flowers.

roots

Deep taproot with extensive lateral root system; forms symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi.

stem

Multiple stems with sharp thorns; grayish-brown bark becoming furrowed with age; dense branching pattern.

leaves

Deeply lobed leaves 1-3 inches long; serrated edges; bright green in spring, yellow to red in autumn; alternate arrangement.

flowers

Dense clusters of small, white to pink flowers with 5 petals; strong, distinctive fragrance; appear in late spring.

fruits/seeds

Small, red berry-like pomes (haws) containing 1-3 seeds; persist through winter; important food source for wildlife.

1-2 teaspoons dried flowers/leaves per cup boiling water; steep 15-20 minutes

Berries simmered 20-30 minutes for stronger cardiovascular effects

1:5 ratio with 45% alcohol; macerate for 4-6 weeks

Fresh leaves crushed for topical wound healing

Flowers in carrier oil for massage and topical circulation support