Common hawthorn and Snowy mespilus are often considered for the same spot in the garden (hedge, screening, pollinator friendly, flowers, specimen). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Crataegus monogyna 4 m × 3 m after 10 years
A thorny large shrub or small tree that is covered in scented white blossom in May and loaded with red haws in autumn, much loved by birds. It makes…
Amelanchier lamarckii 6 m × 6 m after 10 years
This airy small tree or multi-stemmed shrub brings white spring blossom, edible summer fruit and bright autumn colour. It suits specimen planting,…
Snowy mespilus is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -29 °C for Common hawthorn.
Common hawthorn tolerates drought better than Snowy mespilus.
Common hawthorn needs less water than Snowy mespilus.
Snowy mespilus is cheaper: about €13 at the size usually planted, against about €31 for Common hawthorn.
|
Feature
|
Common hawthorn
|
Snowy mespilus
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Small tree | Small tree |
| Size after 10 years | 4 m × 3 m | 6 m × 6 m |
| Ultimate size | 4–9 m × 4–8 m | 8–12 m × 6–9 m |
| Growth rate | Medium | Medium |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | May–June, white | April–May, white |
| Water need | Low | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | High | Medium |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Planting distance | 250 cm | 500 cm |
| For dogs | Non-toxic | no data |
| For cats | Non-toxic | no data |
| For children | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Mildly toxic (uncertain) |
| Typical price | approx. €31 | approx. €13 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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