Hawthorn

a shrub or small tree. The botanical name is Crataegus. It is a member of the rose family and is closely related to the apple. Bailey's Cyclopedia describes twenty-one species. The hawthorn of English literature is midway between a shrub and a small tree. It grows to a height of fifteen feet. It has spreading branches and stout spines. It bears rounded corymbs of fragrant flowers. The scarlet fruit is globular, and is from one-third to half an inch in diameter. The hawthorn has strong wood and heavy spines, making it suitable for hedges. It grows wild in northern Africa, the greater part of Europe, and in western Asia. It has been introduced into the United States. Washington planted a hedge at Mt. Vernon. The hawthorn is a favorite with the English poets. See Apple

The hawthorn whitens; and the juicy groves Put forth their buds.--Thomson.

The hawthorn bush, with seats beneath the shade, for talking age and whispering lovers made.--Goldsmith.