It is a broadleaf tree which is usually grown as a bush but it can reach about 10m as a tree.

Hawthorn bush.

Hawthorn tree

The hawthorn leaves are small, single and lobed. The bark is black and smooth but the twigs are thorny. Because it is thorny it is good to keep cattle in.

It has lots of white flowers in spring which is called May Blossom. Sometimes they can be pink and white. In the old days they said it was bad luck to bring them indoors.

It has small red berries called haws in autumn. Birds like to eat them but people can make jelly out of them.

Written By Harriet. Photographs By Harriet and Shelby

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