Pink Flowering Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata Rosea Plena)

Written and edited by Tammy 11th November 2025

Pink Flowering Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata Rosea Plena)

If you’ve wandered down the main street of Naracoorte recently, you’ve no doubt noticed the stunning canopy of pink that’s stealing the show right now. The Pink Flowering Hawthorn Crataegus laevigata Rosa Plena are putting on the most amazing display, a sign that spring has truly settled in.

These small trees line the footpaths like a living celebration, their branches laden with clusters of double rosy-pink blooms that pop against the fresh green foliage. They’re compact and tidy in shape typically growing around 4 to 6 metres tall and wide, making them perfect for street planting, cottage gardens, or small yards where space and structure both matter.

A Tree with Character and Charm

‘Rosea plena’ has a lovely, rounded crown and a graceful form that brings softness to built-up spaces. In winter, its fine branching adds interest even without leaves, and come spring, it bursts into that unforgettable display of colour that lifts the whole street. Later in the season, glossy green leaves deepen in tone, creating a cool, shady haven for pedestrians and pollinators alike.

Care and Growing Tips

Despite their elegance, hawthorns are tough and low maintenance. They prefer a well-drained soil, anything from loam to light clay and thrive in full sun. Once established, they’re quite drought tolerant and can handle the cooler winters of the Limestone Coast with ease. A light prune after flowering will help maintain their shape and encourage next year’s blooms.

They don’t ask for much: a bit of mulch to keep roots cool, an occasional deep soak during dry spells, and admiration from passers-by (which they get plenty of right now!)

Perfect Uses

• 🌸 Street or avenue planting- they add instant charm and seasonal delight.

• 🌿 Feature trees- a single specimen in a front yard makes a cheerful statement.

• 🐝 Habitat for wildlife- bees adore the flowers, and the small fruits (haws) that follow are a treat for birds.

• 🏡 Cottage and heritage gardens- their old-world charm pairs beautifully with roses, lavender, and bulbs.

As you stroll down the main street this week, take a moment to look up, the air’s sweeter, the colours richer, and it’s hard not to smile. The pink flowering hawthorns are in full glory, reminding us how beautiful our town can be when nature and community meet in bloom.

Happy Gardening😘🌸