Crataegus 'Paul's Scarlet'

This extremely hardy, ornamental tree will grow in almost any condition or soil including exposed areas, coastal sites and damp sites. It is very tolerant and will grow in cities where pollution levels are high.

The Crataegus Paul's Scarlet is also known as the Midland Hawthorn tree. This delightful tree has an RHS Award of Garden Merit. It offers a fairly compact shape with masses of beautiful deep scarlet-pink double flowers which appear in spring, from March to May. The flowers are beautifully contrasted by a luscious green foliage of slightly glossy, dark-green, deeply lobed leaves. In autumn it looks glorious with red fruits, known as haws. Adding to the spectacular display in autumn, are the leaves which turn to vibrant shades of orange and yellow before falling. In winter, it looks stark and the thorns on the branches can be seen.

Paul's Scarlet grows to a height of around 6m and is ideal for a smaller garden. It has an upright and elegant habit with light branches that become slightly pendulous at their tips. The tree requires very little maintenance. Remove broken branches to maintain a neat shape. Also check for and remove crossed branches, to allow the light to penetrate into the inner canopy.

The Crataegus Paul's Scarlet makes a lovely colourful statement in a garden and adds interest as it attracts an abundance of butterflies, bees and birds. To create a lovely setting, plant it alongside a Double White Flowering Hawthorn, Crataegus laevigata 'Plena'. It offers a burst of similar flowers in a contrasting white.