How to Identify the Downy Hawthorn

Leaf Identification

The leaves of the Downy Hawthorn are 2″ to 5″ long and 2″ to 4″ wide. They have variable shapes, but it is typically ovate-shaped. The margins are irregularly serrated or doubly serrated, and the venation is pinnate. The margin is sometimes lobes as well as serrated.

  • Diseased Leaf of Arbor Walk #67
  • Underside of Leaf from Arbor Walk #67

Twig and Bud Identification

The twigs and branches of the Downy Hawthorn have 1″ to 2″ long, sharp thorns, but this hawthorn has less thorns than most other hawthorn species. The twigs are zig zag. The buds are dark, shiny red, and round.

  • Twig of Arbor Walk #67
  • Bud of Arbor Walk #67

Bark Identification

The Downy Hawthorn’s bark is smooth when young but breaks up into narrow scales with age.

  • Bark of Arbor Walk #67
  • Trunk of Arbor Walk #67

Fruit Identification

The Downy Hawthorn has scarlet or bright crimson pomes that are globe shaped. Immature fruit are green.

  • Unhealthy, Immature Fruit of Arbor Walk #67

Flower Identification

The flowers of the Downy Hawthorn are white and in 3/4″ to 1″ wide clusters. They also have an unpleasant smell.