Plant Identification Learning Module:
Fruits & Nuts
Mayhaw (Crataegus spp.)
Mayhaw generally grows as a deciduous shrub, or small tree, with thorns and moderately small leaves of varying shapes depending on the species. The flowers of five white petals, sometimes six, bloom before the leaves appear. Mayhaw fruit are small (1/2 to 2/3 inches in diameter), round, fragrant, acid and juicy. The fruit resembles cranberries in appearance, crabapple in flavor, and may be green, yellow, orange, red, russet, or even purplish at maturity. Mayhaw may be found growing naturally in North and Central Florida.
Photos by Shirley Denton
© Wunderlin, R. P., and B. F. Hansen. 2008. USF Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants
Foliage of Crataegus aestivalis, UF/IFAS
Photo of Crataegus flava by Guy Anglin
© Wunderlin, R. P., and B. F. Hansen. 2008. USF Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants
Photo of Crataegus crus-galli by Craig Huegel
© Wunderlin, R. P., and B. F. Hansen. 2008. USF Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants
