Crataegus Laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ (Red May Tree)

Perfect for the small garden, this round headed hardy tree can grow to 5 x 4metres over 20 years. The fully double pinky red flowers emerge in late May followed by bright red haws.

Happy in full sun to partial shade on any soil and any site including coastal and polluted situations. Can be a bit slow to root our so stake when planting and prune lightly for the first year or so until thoroughly established. Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.