Family: Rosaceae
Author: Eggl.
Bibliography: N. Amer. Trees: 473 (1908)
Year: 1908
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Crataegus
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & SE. U.S.A.
Description
Parsley-hawthorn, scientifically referred to as Crataegus marshallii, is a distinctive member of the Rosaceae family. This plant is particularly noted for its geographical prevalence across the central and southeastern regions of the United States. It first gained botanical recognition in 1908, as documented in the work “N. Amer. Trees.”
Crataegus marshallii stands out in the hawthorn family for its delicate, fern-like foliage, which bears a striking resemblance to parsley, hence the common name “Parsley-hawthorn.” The leaves are intricately lobed and finely serrated, creating a lacy appearance that adds ornamental value to gardens and natural landscapes alike.
In addition to its unique leaves, the Parsley-hawthorn produces small, fragrant white to pale pink flowers usually in late spring. These blooms are followed by the development of small red pome fruits, which provide a food source for various wildlife, including birds. Its fruits, though not often consumed by humans, contribute to the ecological balance by supporting local fauna.
Growing typically as a small tree or large shrub, the Parsley-hawthorn can reach heights of about 15 to 20 feet. It prefers well-drained soil and can thrive in both full sunlight and partial shade, making it a versatile addition to various planting sites. Despite its delicate appearance, this hardy species is adaptable and resistant to many common diseases and pests that afflict other ornamental trees.
Parsley-hawthorn plays a vital role in native landscapes, offering aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits. Its graceful foliage and seasonal flowers make it a favored choice for naturalistic garden designs, while its resilience and low maintenance requirements further enhance its appeal as a garden subject. As observed in its native range, Crataegus marshallii forms an essential part of the regional flora, demonstrating nature’s intricate beauty and adaptability.
Common Names
Eng: parsley hawthorn, parsley-hawthorn
En: Parsley-hawthorn, Parsley hawthorn
Synonyms
- Mespilus monogyna var. apiifolia ((Marshall) K.Koch)
- Mespilus oxyacantha var. americana (Castigl.)
- Mespilus monogyna apiifolia ((Marshall) K.Koch)
- Crataegus apiifolia var. minor (Loudon)
- Crataegus apiifolia major (Lodd.)
- Crataegus oxyacantha var. apiifolia ((Marshall) Regel)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
Additional Images
Fruit
Taken Jul 16, 2021 by elixir cortex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 12, 2020 by Mark Bagdon (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 14, 2019 by Shoshanna Sho (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 11, 2020 by Xanthe Dick (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 18, 2020 by Corinne Hoffert (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Mar 12, 2016 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 21, 2021 by jeromy cantu (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 19, 2016 by EOL − anewman (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 12, 2021 by Matthew Smith (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Apr 22, 2022 by Brad Kelley (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 29, 2020 by Tom M (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 10, 2020 by Katarzyna Kotlarska (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 25, 2020 by Ivan Pequeno (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 27, 2020 by Sebastien Amiel (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Sep 8, 2014 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 8, 2014 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 25, 2014 by EOL − harveychelsi1 (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 25, 2014 by EOL − harveychelsi1 (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 25, 2014 by EOL − harveychelsi1 (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Nov 19, 2014 by EOL − nikaylahughes (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 24, 2014 by EOL − Haley Vanderploeg (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 25, 2014 by EOL − harveychelsi1 (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 25, 2014 by EOL − harveychelsi1 (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 22, 2022 by Brad Kelley (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3014468)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:723766-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Crataegus marshallii Eggl.)
Specifications
Growth form>: Single Stem
Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub
Growth rate>: Moderate
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.2
Ph minimum: 5.8