Washington Hawthorn vs American Bladdernut - TreeTime.ca

Washington Hawthorn vs American Bladdernut

Staphylea trifolia

Crataegus phaenopyrum

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American Bladdernut
Washington Hawthorn

American Bladdernut is a fast-growing, ornamental shrub native to eastern North America. It can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a small tree. The small, drooping, white flowers are bell-shaped and grow in clusters. They appear in mid to late spring, attracting various pollinators. Well suited as an understory plant as it prefers shady and partial sun location with moist soils.

The blossoms mature into papery seed capsules and have been described as miniature Japanese lanterns. They are commonly used in dried flower arrangements. The seeds found within the pods are edible, and have a taste similar to pistachios. They can be eaten raw, used in baking or made into a sweet cooking oil.

Care should be taken when planting American Bladdernut, as it can spread quickly. It is prone to suckering and will self-seed. Plant the right tree in the right place.

Washington Hawthorn is an attractive ornamental shrub that is dense enough to plant as a privacy screen. It produces clusters of white blooms in late spring to early summer.

Washington Hawthorn's red berries last throughout winter, bringing squirrels and birds to your property. In the fall, its foliage turns beautiful orange, scarlet, or purple.

One of the most overlooked trees on the prairies. This tree is often used as rootstock, a wildlife attractor, or a boulevard hedge. Give this one a second look.

This species is also known as one of the more salt-tolerant species for those with saline soils.

Please note: this plant is poisonous to dogs.

American Bladdernut Quick Facts

Washington Hawthorn Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 3a
Height: 4 m (12 ft)
Height: 6 m (20 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 4 m (12 ft)
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: any
Light: shade, partial shade
Light: partial shade, full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Fall colour: orange, scarlet or purple
Berries: small, red
Flowers: white
Flowers: white flowers in spring
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: medium
Suckering: none


In row spacing: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)


Other Names: washington thorn