Plant Type Tree
Deciduous, Broadleaf

Form Rounded

Climate Zones 4b to 8a

Bloom Color White, Pink, Lavender

Bloom Time Early spring, Mid spring, Late spring

Growth Rate Average

Mature Height 15 to 25 feet

Mature Spread 15 to 25 feet

Environment Full sun
Moist soil
Drought tolerant
Tolerates wetness
Wind tolerant

Soil Alkaline, Neutral, Acidic, Clay, Sandy, Well drained, Loamy, Adaptable, Slightly alkaline

Leaf Color Green

Fall Color No change in color, Not showy

Attributes Not North American native
Attracts birds
Edible
Deer resistant
Attracts hummingbirds
Attractive flowers or blooms
Moderately dense crown
Moderately flammable

Uses Specimen
Lawn tree
Street tree
Small site
Large scale planting
Screen
Seashore
Winter interest
Massing
Patio tree


Native Habitat Europe, Northern Africa, Western Asia

Culture Notes When lower branches are removed, this tough tree can be used as a street or parking lot tree where overhead space is limited by power lines or other features. Be sure to purchase trees that do not require a stake to hold them erect. Branches bear sharp thorns which can inflict pain as they meet flesh, but cultivars have been selected without these. Grows well in tree pits and other confined soil spaces. Trees tolerate about any soil except one kept constantly wet. Plant in the open with good air circulation to help reduce leaf diseases.

Be sure to clear all turf away from beneath the branches to reduce competition with turf. Remove some branches so they will not touch each other. Remove some secondary branches from main branches (especially those toward the end of the main branches) if main branches have included bark. This reduces the likelihood of main branches splitting from the tree later when it has grown to become an important part of the landscape. Locate the tree properly, taking into account the ultimate size since the tree looks best if it is not pruned to control size. The tree can enhance any landscape with its delightful spring flush of foliage and flowers. It can be the centerpiece of your landscape if properly located.

Prune early in the life of the tree to develop several major branches well-spaced along a central trunk. This will improve the durability of the tree compared to trees with many upright and spreading branches originating from one point on the trunk. Prune to maintain a dominant leader by cutting back competing leaders and branches. Do this every 3 years for the first 15-20 years after planting. Regularly reduce the length of low aggressive branches by making drop crotch cuts if these branches will be in the way later and have to be removed later. This will prevent you from having to make large pruning wounds later.

Pests and Diseases Pests: Pests include aphids and lacebug.
Diseases
Fireblight and rust can cause significant damage to this tree.