Crataegus laevigata ‘Alba Plena’

‘Alba Plena’ is the double white form of midland hawthorn. In May the branches are smothered in fully double, pure white flowers, rose-like and long-lasting, before the deep lobed green leaves are fully out.

It makes a small, rounded deciduous tree, eventually around 5 to 6m tall and wide, with twiggy growth that creates a good dense canopy. Tough as old boots, copes with most soils and exposed sites, and supports plenty of wildlife.

Plant in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Minimal pruning needed, though a light tidy in late winter keeps the shape balanced. Thorns on the branches, as you’d expect from a hawthorn.

A proper small specimen tree for a cottage garden, a front lawn, or as part of a mixed hedgerow planting.