Hawthorn blossom on show

Over the next few weeks, the heavily scented blossom of the hawthorn or May tree signals that summer is well and truly on its way. These widespread UK trees grow up to 15 metres tall, with knotty brown-grey bark and thorny twigs. They have small leaves that start out pale green in spring and darken over the summer. In May and June, however, the leaves are overwhelmed by five-petalled white or pink flowers. Scientists say hawthorns can support up to 300 insect species. Their flowers are a treat for dormice and the tangled branches make great nesting sites for birds. Pollinated flowers form deep red fruits called haws that stay on the tree until the following spring and provide a valuable winter food source for wildlife.…

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The Week Junior (Digital) - 1 Issue, 335

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