Mexican hawthorn (Crataegus mexicana)
Care, watering, light and tips for Mexican hawthorn on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rosaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Mexican hawthorn
The tejocote (Crataegus mexicana) is a deciduous fruit tree native to Mexico, recognized for its small, yellowish fruits that ripen in autumn. It features a dense, thorny canopy, with oval leaves and fragrant white flowers in spring. It is ideal for rustic gardens, orchards, or as an ornamental tree due to its aesthetic and culinary value.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It requires full sun for good fruit production and well-drained soil, preferably fertile and slightly acidic. Watering should be moderate, increasing during flowering and fruiting, but avoiding waterlogging. Light pruning in winter to shape and remove dead branches. A common mistake is insufficient sun exposure, which drastically reduces fruit yield.
How to save a dying Mexican hawthorn
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown leaves falling prematurely, small or no fruit formation.
- First aid
- Check soil drainage and moisture; hawthorn is sensitive to waterlogging. Prune dry or diseased branches.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, poor or compacted soil, or lack of direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Ensure good drainage and full sun. Protect from severe frost if young.