Arnold hawthorn (Crataegus mollis, Linnaea 21: 569 (1848))

Family: Rosaceae

Author: (Torr. & A.Gray) Scheele

Bibliography: Linnaea 21: 569 (1848)

Year: 1848

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Crataegus

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SE. Canada to C. & E. U.S.A.

Description

The Arnold hawthorn, scientifically known as Crataegus mollis, is a notable species within the Rosaceae family, a diverse lineage that includes many well-known fruit and ornamental plants. First described through the collaborative work of eminent botanists, John Torrey and Asa Gray, and later refined by German botanist Scheele, this species has garnered attention since its initial classification in 1848 as documented in Linnaea volume 21, page 569.

Crataegus mollis is prevalent predominantly in the southeastern regions of Canada and extends through central to eastern parts of the United States. This geographical distribution allows the Arnold hawthorn to thrive in various temperate environments, adapting well to the local climatic and soil conditions.

The Arnold hawthorn stands out within its genus for multiple reasons. Known for its hardy nature, it features an intricate branching system adorned with sharp thorns and a spread that offers valuable habitat and food sources to numerous bird species. In spring, it produces an array of white to pinkish blooms, contributing to its popularity as an ornamental tree. These blossoms are not only aesthetically pleasing but also essential for pollinators, playing a significant role in the local ecosystem.

The foliage of the Arnold hawthorn is distinguishable by its soft, downy texture, giving the leaves a somewhat velvety appearance. As autumn approaches, the leaves transform into a striking palette of yellows, oranges, and reds, adding seasonal interest to landscapes. Following the flowering phase, the tree produces small, apple-like fruits that transition from green to a vibrant red as they mature, often lasting well into winter and offering a crucial food source for wildlife during colder months.

In landscapes and gardens, Crataegus mollis serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. Its robust structure and decorative qualities make it a preferred choice for urban settings, parks, and large garden spaces. Additionally, this species’ resistance to various pests and diseases further accentuates its desirability among horticulturists and arborists.

In summary, the Arnold hawthorn is a resilient, versatile, and visually appealing plant, deeply rooted in the botanical heritage of North America. Its contributions to both natural habitats and cultivated landscapes affirm its value and underscore the importance of preserving this species for future generations.

Common Names

Eng: arnold hawthorn, downy haw, downy hawthorn, red haw, red hawthorn, summer haw, turkey-apple, downy thorn, red-fruited hawthorn
Ces: hloh měkký
Swe: präriehagtorn, spärrhagtorn
Lit: švelnioji gudobelė
Fra: aubépine duveteuse, aubépine soyeuse
Nob: præriehagtorn
Nno: præriehagtorn
En: Arnold hawthorn, Downy haw, Downy hawthorn, Red haw, Red hawthorn, Summer haw, Turkey-apple, Downy thorn, Red-fruited hawthorn
Cs: Hloh měkký
Fr: Aubépine duveteuse, Aubépine soyeuse
Lt: Švelnioji gudobelė
Nb: Præriehagtorn
Nn: Præriehagtorn
Sv: Präriehagtorn, Spärrhagtorn

Synonyms

• Crataegus coccinea var. mollis (Torr. & A.Gray)
• Crataegus tomentosa var. mollis ((Torr. & A.Gray) Torr. & A.Gray)
• Mespilus mollis ((Torr. & A.Gray) Asch. & Graebn.)
• Oxyacantha mollis ((Torr. & A.Gray) Lunell)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Baltic States (introduced)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken May 23, 2022 by Martin Pösinger (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 1, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 11, 2020 by Юрий (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2022 by DD S. (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 30, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:723817-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3015562)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Crataegus mollis (Torr. & A.Gray) Scheele)

Specifications

Growth