Winter King Hawthorn

Winter King Hawthorn (Crataegus viridis 'Winter King')

Winter King Hawthorn (Crataegus viridis 'Winter King') is a highly ornamental small tree known for its four-season appeal, including showy white flowers in spring, glossy green foliage, vivid fall color, and abundant red-orange berries that persist through winter. A refined cultivar of the native green hawthorn, this selection is widely admired for its attractive branching, silvery bark, and improved disease resistance.

Distinctive Features

'Winter King' features a symmetrical, vase-shaped form with spreading horizontal branches and exfoliating silvery-gray bark that provides striking winter interest. In late spring, the tree is covered in white, five-petaled blooms followed by clusters of bright, ornamental fruit. The glossy foliage turns bronze, red, or purple in autumn before dropping to reveal the sculptural structure and persistent fruit. Typically reaching 20 to 30 feet tall and wide, it is ideal for urban gardens and naturalized landscapes alike.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils, including clay and dry conditions
• Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�7

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Multi-season beauty makes it a standout feature in any setting
• Urban Landscapes: Compact size and pollution tolerance suit streetscapes and courtyards
• Wildlife Gardens: Berries attract birds and provide winter food sources
• Specimen Tree: Ideal for open lawns or planting beds where structure can be appreciated
• Naturalized Areas: Adds ornamental value while supporting native pollinators

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; minimal supplemental watering needed afterward
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to shape and remove crossing branches
• Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer in spring if needed for growth
• Mulching: Maintain mulch ring to protect roots and suppress weeds
• Protection: Disease-resistant and generally thornless, with only small spurs if any

Why Choose Winter King Hawthorn?

• Four-Season Appeal: Flowers, foliage, fruit, and bark offer beauty all year
• Persistent Fruit: Bright berries last into winter and support wildlife
• Improved Disease Resistance: More tolerant of rust and leaf spot than other hawthorns
• Manageable Size: Works well in small gardens and urban spaces
• Focal Point: Elegant form and year-round interest make it an eye-catching anchor plant

Crataegus viridis 'Winter King' is a standout ornamental tree that delivers color, texture, and structure throughout the seasons�an excellent focal point for gardens seeking native beauty with reliable performance.