Mayhaw

The Mayhaw tree, Crataegus aestivalis, is a slow-growing native North American tree that reaches a height of 30 feet with a rounded canopy that spreads to 35 feet or more. The dark green, deciduous leaves are often three-lobed and have red/brown undersides. The sparkling white, showy springtime flowers appear before the new leaves unfurl and are followed by the production of large, red-dotted fruits. The spreading, low branching habit of growth makes this best suited for planting in a large open area of turf. If regular pruning can be provided to keep low, drooping branches pruned, it can be located closer to a walk. Mayhaw trees have small, round reddish fruit that are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch in diameter and resembles a crabapple. It ripens from mid-April early May, hence the name mayhaw. After frost, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow. Although the tree is naturally found in wet, shady sites, it is well adapted to drier, better-drained land and produces more and better fruit in full sunlight. The trees are long-lived and are known to produce fruit for more than 50 years. They are more resistant to disease and can withstand low temperatures better than common fruit trees. ... more info