Mayflower for May Day

May 1st opens with the flower that is often referred to as ‘May Blossom’ or simply, ‘May’. Found extensively in Europe the Common Hawthorn or Crataegus monogyna is part of the Rose family, Rosaceae.

Whilst the Hawthorn can grow into a tree of some 30+ feet, it is often used in hedges and trimmed annually to keep its size and shape. However, when allowed to grow into a row of trees, you get the wall of white blossom that looks so impressive. Hawthorne is good for the ecology providing for birds and insects alike.

Crataegus monogyna - Common Hawthorn - May Flower

Similar Posts

  • Not a Common Lilac – Syringa pubescens

    There are lots of plants that are referred to as ‘Lilac’, but not all are the same family. This particular Lilac is from Korea and China, the Syringa pubescens. Flowering at the same time a the common Lilac, it can be seen in gardens of Europe more and more. In my own garden I have had one many years, but as a shady garden it survives but prefers full sun.

    These delicate tubular flowers can be anything from white to dark magenta and change as the flower develops. A much smaller, slower growing shrub than the Common Lilac.

    Syringa pubescens - Lilac

  • Fremontodendron californicum – Yellow Flower Tree

    It is not often that I see a large yellow flower in a tree in my neck of the woods. So to see this Fremontodendron californicum or California flannelbush is a real surprise and treat. The leaves are there but quite sporadic giving the flowers plenty of room to shine. 

    California flannelbush,  Fremontodendron californicum, is a striking shrub or tree identified by its vibrant yellow flowers and unusual fuzzy foliage. It is very tolerant to dry spells and doesn’t need watering in summer once established. It prefers full sun with well drained soil on the acidic side.

    Fremontodendron californicum - California flannelbush

  • Laburnum – Golden Rain Attracting the Bees

    It’s great to hear the Bees at work in the garden. The Laburnum tree is in full flower with its long trails of golden yellow flowers, a sight to behold. More important is the hum of the Bees busily collecting the pollen and pollinating the plants in the garden and surrounding area.

    The Laburnum, is a member of the Fabaceae family, also known a legume or peas and beans. However, it’s important to remember that all parts of the tree are poisonous, so due care is required.

    Any plant that can attract the Bees is so important because they will ensure our food supply as well as that of many other creatures. To learn more about Bees visit The Wildlife Trusts.

    Laburnum-close up with Bee

  • Calendula – Pot Marigold a Tenacious Sunny Bloom

    Coming across a brightly coloured flower, standing out in a harsh stoney environment does bring a smile. This Calendula or Pot marigold, is a member of the Asteraceae family and has the typical daisy flower head. Native of southern Europe it now cultivated for gardens across the world and has uses other than its obvious ornamental value.

    It has uses in the kitchen as parts are edible, such as the petals can be used in salads. It has uses in medicine as an anti-inflammatory and has skin healing properties. Compounds from Calendula can be found in cosmetics too, but can cause an allergic reaction. 

    Calendula - lone yellow flower by pavement curb

  • 5 Key Reasons for Growing Indian Hawthorn

    On a recent visit to St Julian’s in Malta, I came across a shrub that I was not familiar with. I am always looking around for plants, shrubs and trees that are attractive and unusual to me. This plant was used in the landscape gardening around our hotel and proved quite effective in that situation.

    5 Reasons for Using Indian Hawthorn in Landscape Gardening.

    • Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica) is an evergreen shrub that maintains glossy green foliage all year. In the spring it produces clusters of fragrant pink or white flowers, followed by dark berries in autumn. Hence, an interest plant all year round.
    • The plant is low maintenance. Indian hawthorn requires little care once established. It’s does not require much watering and will survive through a dry spell. It needs only occasional pruning to keep its bushy shape and thrives in a variety of soil types with good drainage.
    • The shrub can be fashioned into many uses and is a versatile plant. It can be used for hedges, borders, or as a stand-alone specimen in gardens, patios, and even grown in containers.
    • It is both heat and salt tolerant. When I think of the situation these plants were in, close by the salty Mediterranean waters that can, in autumn and winter be rough with salt water spray and punishing winds, and yet hot and arid in summer months. This plant can take some punishment.
    • The Indian Hawthorn can support the local ecology and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies that we so desperately need, and the berries provide food for the birds.

    So, all in all, a good choice to fill a space with an attractive shrub that won’t take up much time and resources or need replacing every bad year.

    Rhaphiolepis indica - Indian Hawthorn

  • Manna Ash – Fraxinus ornus

    I came across an unusual tree that in the cold north wind was depositing fluffy chaff. Not recognising it, I used the Seek app to see what it was. Evidently it is called the Manna Ash, or Fraxinus ornus. Obviously the manna refers to the Biblical manna that the Israelis fed on in the wilderness. However, the link I made was from all the white chaff falling on me. Rather, the reason it is called the Manna Ash is more to do with the sweet sticky sap that comes from the bark. Anyway an interesting part of the Ash family.

    Fraxinus ornus - Manna Ash