Crataegus monogyna

(Hawthorn)

This noxious weed is prohibited entry into Western Australia and is regionally controlled in Victoria and South Australia where it is capable of spreading beyond the areas it currently occupies.

They can be found in natural areas as varied as grasslands, woodlands and forests, as well as along roadsides and in paddocks. Their invasive success is due in part to their tolerance of a wide range of soils and conditions. They are also successfully spread is via birds who digest the seed, enhancing germination and spreading it over a large area. It also suckers and can be spread by other animals and by dumping garden waste in natural areas.

Its environmental effects are not just limited to natural areas either. In the garden it harbours pests such as light brown apple moth and pear and cherry slug. They usually have long thorns which makes removing them from bushland even more arduous.

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