Crataegus azarolus aka Mediterranean Hawthorn

Crataegus azarolus is a deciduous shrub or small tree that typically reaches 4-10 meters (13-32 feet) in height with a similar spread of 4-8 meters. It has a bushy, spreading habit and grows at a moderate rate, taking 10-20 years to reach full size. Seedling trees begin bearing fruit after 5-8 years, while grafted specimens may flower heavily by their third year.

Crataegus azarolus is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and UK hardiness zone 6, meaning it can tolerate winter temperatures down to -15°C to -10°C (5°F to 14°F). As a Mediterranean native, it thrives in warm summers but is not frost tender and can handle cold winters in most temperate regions. It is not suitable for tropical climates as it requires a period of winter dormancy.

Crataegus azarolus produces dense clusters of white flowers with distinctive purple anthers in late spring to early summer, typically June. The flowers are hermaphroditic (containing both male and female parts) and have five petals. They emit a somewhat unpleasant odor resembling decaying fish, which attracts midges—their primary pollinators. Following successful pollination, the flowers develop into small apple-like fruits by autumn.

The flowers of Crataegus azarolus have a notably unpleasant scent, often described as similar to decaying fish. This foetid odor serves an important ecological purpose—it attracts midges, which are the primary pollinators for this species. The ripe fruit, by contrast, has a pleasant fragrant aroma, especially in warm climates where the sugars develop fully.

Crataegus azarolus is divided into four recognized varieties, mainly distinguished by fruit color. Var. azarolus produces orange fruit and is the typical form. Var. aronia has yellowish fruit often tinged with red and is native from the Central and Eastern Mediterranean to Iran. Var. chlorocarpa bears pure yellow-green fruit and is found in Southern Europe. Var. senobaaensis is a recently described variety from Turkey.

Crataegus azarolus thrives outdoors in USDA zones 5-9 and UK zone 6, tolerating temperatures down to -15°C. It is native to the Mediterranean Basin and Western Asia, growing from Algeria to Iran. The tree tolerates atmospheric pollution and strong winds, though not maritime exposure. For best fruit production, plant in full sun; the tree will grow in partial shade but with reduced yields.

Crataegus azarolus requires minimal pruning and falls into RHS pruning group 1, meaning only formative pruning and removal of dead, diseased, or damaged wood is needed. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Regular pruning helps improve air circulation and light penetration. Wear protective clothing including heavy gloves and eye protection, as the thorns can reach 7.5 cm (3 inches) long.

Crataegus azarolus can be propagated by seed or grafting. Seed propagation is slow—seeds require warm stratification for 3 months at 15°C followed by cold stratification for 3 months at 4°C, and may take up to 18 months to germinate. Seedling trees take 5-8 years to bear fruit. For faster results, graft onto compatible rootstock; grafted trees often flower heavily by their third year. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer can also be successful.

Crataegus azarolus is susceptible to several pests including aphids, caterpillars, and hawthorn button top midge. Disease-wise, it can be affected by fireblight (a serious bacterial disease of Rosaceae), honey fungus, crown gall, silver leaf, powdery mildews, and various leaf spots. Good cultural practices such as proper spacing for air circulation and prompt removal of infected material help manage these issues.

Crataegus azarolus has hermaphroditic flowers containing both male and female organs. It is primarily pollinated by midges, which are attracted by the flowers' foetid odor (somewhat like decaying fish). While technically self-fertile, cross-pollination between different trees typically produces better fruit set. The flowers appear in June and, once pollinated, develop into small pome fruits by autumn.

Yes, the azarole fruit has been cultivated for eating since ancient times and earns an edibility rating of 4 out of 5. The small apple-like fruits (2-3.5 cm diameter) can be eaten raw or cooked in pies and preserves. In warm climates, they develop sweet, fragrant pulp with a slightly acid flavor; in cooler regions, fruits are better suited for cooking. The dried leaves can also serve as a tea substitute. Important: remove seeds before eating as they contain toxins.

Crataegus azarolus has a medicinal rating of 2 out of 5, indicating moderate traditional use. The fruits and flowers function as a heart tonic with hypotensive (blood pressure lowering) properties, particularly useful for weak hearts with elevated blood pressure. Prolonged use is typically required, administered as tea or tincture. Additionally, raw fruits and leaf decoctions have been used to treat diabetes, leaf decoctions for gastric ulcers, and fruit oil for heart conditions. Modern research confirms the leaves have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Beyond food and medicine, Crataegus azarolus has several practical uses. The wood is heavy, extremely hard, tough, and close-grained—historically prized for tool handles, mallets, and turnery work. The tree serves as a frost-resistant rootstock for pears and quinces. In arid regions, it's planted in windbreaks and forest belts. The plant also has ornamental value with its spring flowers and autumn fruit, and its thorny branches make effective hedging.