Eastern thorn, Silver hawthorn
Crataegus orientalis

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

A small spreading tree. It loses its leaves during the year. It grows 5 m tall. It spreads 2 m wide. The leaves are furry and grey-green. The leaves turn yellow in autumn. They are 5 cm long and have lobes. There are teeth along the edge near the tip. The flowers are whitish-pink. They have 5 petals. The fruit are large orange-red berries. They are 2 cm long.

Medlar is grafted onto this plant due to its hardiness.

Where it is found

A temperate plant. It will grow in most soils. It needs an open sunny position. It is resistant to frost and drought.

Countries/locations it is found in

Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Britain, Caucasus, Europe (country/location of origin), Georgia, Greece, Mediterranean, Spain, Turkey, Türkiye

How it is used for food

The fruit are eaten especially by children. The flowering shoots are used for tea.

It is sold in local markets.

Edible parts

Fruit, flowering shoots - tea

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Aluc, Heluje, Risok, Sari alic, Sez, Sinz

Synonyms

Crataegus tournefortii Griseb.; and several others