Pinkie Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata ‘Pinkie’ or Crataegus x mordenensis ‘Pinkie’) is a valued ornamental tree or large shrub. It offers visual appeal with distinctive spring flowers and colorful autumn fruits, providing year-round interest.
Identifying Pinkie Hawthorn
Pinkie Hawthorn is distinguished by pink flowers that emerge in spring, often appearing in clusters. Small, pome-like fruits (haws) follow, ripening to vibrant red in late summer and persisting into colder months. Its leaves are lobed or serrated and dark green. Hawthorns have sharp thorns on their branches. While many Crataegus species grow into large trees, ‘Pinkie’ is a more compact variety, often a smaller tree or substantial shrub.
Planting and Growing Conditions
Pinkie Hawthorn thrives in full sun, which encourages abundant flowering, though it tolerates partial shade. It adapts to various well-draining soil types, tolerating acidic, neutral, or alkaline pH levels. Newly planted specimens need consistent moisture; provide about one inch of water per week during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Pinkie Hawthorn is hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 4 through 8.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, Pinkie Hawthorn needs care to maintain health and form. Pruning is done during the dormant season in early spring before sap flow, or in summer after leaves develop. This shapes the plant, removes crossing or crowded branches, and controls size. Remove suckers and water sprouts to direct energy towards desirable growth.
Young hawthorn plants benefit from annual spring fertilization with a balanced formula, such as a 10-10-10 granular or liquid fertilizer. Mature plants require less frequent feeding. While established Pinkie Hawthorns exhibit good drought tolerance, supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells supports vigor and fruit production. Apply water directly to the soil to avoid wetting foliage, which helps prevent fungal issues.
Common Pests, Diseases, and Problems
Pinkie Hawthorn is susceptible to several common pests and diseases. Pests include aphids (causing leaf distortion and honeydew), borers, scale insects, lace bugs, leaf miners, and spider mites.
Diseases include fire blight, which causes wilting and blackening of shoots, sometimes resulting in a “shepherd’s crook” appearance. Rust diseases, such as cedar-hawthorn rust and quince rust, appear as orange lesions on leaves and sometimes fruit. Powdery mildew appears as white, powdery growth on foliage, while various leaf spot fungi cause dark, irregular spots. To manage these issues, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead irrigation, and select disease-resistant cultivars. Prompt removal of affected plant parts also limits disease spread.
Landscape Applications
Pinkie Hawthorn offers diverse landscape applications. Its attractive form and seasonal interest make it suitable as a specimen plant, providing a focal point. It can also be used in mixed borders, contributing structure and color. The thorny nature of hawthorns makes them a good choice for dense hedges or screens, offering visual privacy and a deterrent barrier. The persistent red haws are a valuable food source for various bird species, enhancing wildlife activity, particularly during fall and winter.