Crataegus mexicana - Mexican Hawthorn

Native in Mexico and Guatemala, locally known as tejocote or manzanita (meaning little apple). The Mexican Hawthorn is a small compact tree or shrub, up to 3m in the UK in 20-30 years. This species is famous for being the most used species for its fruit. The pinkish yellow apples have a refreshing, aromatic taste. They mature late autumn and can be used in many ways. In Mexico, the fruit is eaten cooked, raw, or canned. It resembles a crabapple, but with bigger, harder stones in the centre. Nevertheless, the flesh is abundant and is a main ingredient used in ponche (the traditional Mexican hot fruit punch that is served around Christmas). On the Day of the Dead, the tejocote fruit as well as candy prepared from them are used as offerings to the deceased. It can be used in jellies, preserves too. Despite its origin, Crataegus mexicana is well hardy to -10C, therefore overwinters with no problem in most of the UK. Not fussy to soil conditions, easy to grow, and it makes a good patio fruit as well.

We have excellent quality, 60-80cm tall plants on offer.