Disease and Insect Resistant Ornamental Plants: Crataegus (Hawthorn)

Abstract

Crataegus is a large genus of shrubs and small trees in the rose family commonly known as hawthorn. This popular ornamental has showy pink or white flowers in spring and colorful berry-like fruit. Some species also have long thorns that provide protection for wildlife but may be a hazard in the landscape–thornless cultivars are available. Like other rosaceous plants, hawthorns are susceptible to a number of diseases including fire blight, scab, leaf spot and several types of rust. Insect pests include lace bugs and leaf miners.