Crataegus marshallii Eggl.

Parsley Hawthorn; Parsley Leaf Haw

Tree

Perennial

Vascular

Parsley Leaf Haw is a native deciduous shrub or small tree in the Rose family (Rosaceae). It can be found throughout Alabama. Parsley Leaf Haw occurs along rivers, in prairies, in rich hardwood forests, and along fence rows. It sometimes grows as a single trunked small flat-topped tree to 20 feet in height. At other times, it is a multi-trunked shrub from 10-15 feet in height. The bark is thin and peels in large plate-like sections. Older bark is gray in color and newer bark is brown or green in color. This gives the trunk a pleasing mottled appearance. Twigs are armed with slender 1-3 inch thorns. The number of thorns vary on different limbs and between different plants. Leaves are alternate, petiolate, triangular in outline, 3 lobed, and toothed. Leaves are pubescent especially along the veins on the lower surface. Flowers are produced in 4-10 flowered inflorescences. The flower stalks are pubescent. Flowers have an inferior ovary, 5 triangular sepals, and 5 white or pinkish petals. There are 20 stamens with red or pink anthers. The fruit is a bright red pome with 3 hard seed. The fruit are eaten by many species of birds and small mammals. Parsley Leaf Haw is a popular native shrub and is often available from nurseries. It prefers a loamy soil in full to partial sun.--A. Diamond

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Native FAC (NWPL)

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