Russian Hawthorn, Crateagus ambigua

Russian Hawthorn, Crateagus ambigua

Type: Deciduous

Exposure: Full Sun

Water Use: Medium

Mature Size: 20’ H x 20’ W

 

The Russian hawthorn is a small tree with arching stems that form a rounded crown about 20 feet tall by 20 feet wide. In the late spring, clusters of white flowers appear. Groupings of small ¼- to ½-inch vibrant red fruits appear in late summer and persist until the birds carry them off. Foliage is a soft green, turning shades of yellow, orange and red in the fall. This tree has thorns, and as it ages its trunk develops a gnarled character, both which have visual interest in the winter. Maintenance involves trimming any suckers and every few years thinning out crossing branches. Once established (at around three years) water to a depth of 24” every two weeks when temperatures are above 85 degrees and once a month during cooler weather.

Russian Hawthorn Berries

Oklahoma Redbud, Cercis canadensis var. texensis “Oklahoma”

Oklahoma Redbud, Cercis canadensis var. texensis “Oklahoma”

Type: Deciduous Tree

Exposure: Full sun and Part Shade

Water Use: Low

Mature Size: 15’ x 10’ The small accent Oklahoma Redbud tree begins the growing season with a blast of radiant purple blossoms. This stunning show is followed by purple seedpods and bright green leaves. The Oklahoma Redbud can be trained as a single or multi-trunked tree by shaping it in early summer. Due to its deep rooting tendency, this tree is perfect for courtyards or in narrow beds. It does have a tendency to produce offspring, which should be removed where not needed.