Beginning in early winter, many of us longingly look for that last spot of color to brighten our days and yards. Perhaps we’re looking for something with interesting bark, persisting fruit or beautiful branching and stem coloration. We don’t have to look any further than the aptly named ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne. It is a tree that looks quite “regal” in the frosty environment, bedecked with brilliant red fruit upon its’ silvery frame. As if these features weren’t enough, the fallen leaves reveal multi-colored exfoliating bark on the main limbs and trunk. The beige-gray (almost silvery) outer bark layer peels back to expose a warm copper-cinnamon color beneath. Younger branches tend to be more silvery green (hence the Latin species name ‘viridis’, which means green) and they provide an equally startling contrast. But wait, we’re not done yet! There is the maturing tree trunk size of six inches in diameter or larger! In addition to the ever present exfoliating two-toned colored bark, a fluted, twisting, ribbed appearance begins to develop. These effects are exaggerated with increasing diameter and an eye-catching sinuous, “twisted rope” appears.
If I sound like a huge fan of this tree, you’re right. The ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne tree is equally attractive in the spring and summer months, when clusters of white flowers form against lustrous green leaves. Although attractively displayed, the flowers have been described by some as having a “malodorous” fragrance. Brilliant red fruit starts forming in late September or early October. The fruit ordinarily covers the tree quite nicely, persisting through the winter months. Since there can be some fruit drop, the ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne shouldn’t be placed where it is directly over a patio or walkway. Fall colors, although not one of the primary ornamental features of this tree, are still quite nice in the autumn. The color changes from lustrous green to golden yellow with scattered traces of red, purple and maroon. The ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne matures to a small ornamental tree size of 15 to 25 feet tall and wide. It has an upright vase growth pattern as a young tree. As the ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne tree matures, the growth pattern is more spreading, either vase shaped or horizontal. The tree can easily be managed through timely selective pruning to fit into whatever site desired. The ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne does have some thorns, as do other Hawthorne species, therefore it should not be placed where there is nearby pedestrian traffic.
The ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne is hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 7, and should receive full to mostly full sun exposure for optimal performance. Windy, exposed locations are not a problem for this tree. The ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne is tolerant of compacted soils, various soil pH’s, heat, drought and even occasional flooding. It is also tolerant of city pollution. Disease and insect pests are normally not a serious problem with this Hawthorne. The tree’s inherent minor Hawthorne susceptibility to Cedar/Apple and Quince Rusts can be greatly reduced when it receives full sun exposure. Occasional feeding by Lepdopthera Species caterpillars and Japanese Beetles can happen, but usually only minor damage occurs. The ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne will usually respond with a new flush of growth if a foliage removal threshold is reached.
‘Winter King’ Hawthorne is commonly available in most nurseries and garden centers. This beautiful tree is an ideal plant for those wanting year round interest in their gardens and landscapes. Its smaller size lends itself to even the smallest gardens, and its tolerance to adverse conditions is admirable. The ‘Winter King’ Hawthorne certainly deserves a treasured space on our “urban diversified tree species planting list.”
Harold Hoover Kramer Tree Specialists Board Certified Master Arborist IL-1478B
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