Crataegus pinnatifida var. major 'Big Golden Star' (Hawthorn)

Common name: Chinese Hawthorn 'Big Golden Star'

Description: This exceptional Chinese hawthorn cultivar offers outstanding ornamental and edible qualities that set it apart from typical hawthorns. In late spring, the tree produces masses of white flowers in flat-topped clusters that cover the branches, attracting beneficial pollinators. The real spectacle begins in autumn when the tree becomes laden with very large, glossy fruits that ripen to beautiful golden-yellow, sometimes with an orange-red blush. These fruits are significantly larger than typical hawthorn berries, measuring up to 3cm across, and have excellent flavour - they're edible fresh when fully ripe, though more commonly used for making jellies, preserves, and traditional Chinese hawthorn confections. The deeply lobed, decorative leaves provide attractive texture through summer before turning to warm autumn tones. The fruits persist well into winter if not harvested, providing valuable food for birds and creating ornamental interest. This is a vigorous, hardy tree with good disease resistance and an attractive spreading habit. The combination of spring blossom, unusual large golden fruits, and ornamental foliage makes this an exceptional choice for productive and ornamental gardens.

Other benefits: large edible fruits, spring blossom, ornamental golden berries, attractive foliage, good disease resistance, hardy and vigorous, excellent for preserves

Wildlife attraction: bees, pollinators, birds (fruits)

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 4m x 4m

Position: full sun to partial shade; fruits best in full sun

Soil pH: adaptable to all soil types; very tolerant

Moisture: moderate watering required; very adaptable once established; drought tolerant

Winter hardiness: very cold hardy to -25°C