Crataegus x mordenensis Toba
It has taken me years to identify this bizarre hawthorn on South Millfields in Hackney.
I have examined and photographed the tree on and off over the years and discussed it with
several eminent local botanists but it was only when I recently purchased an updated
Hiller's manual that I finally pinned it down to an unusual hybrid cultivar.
It is curious in being a hawthorn with very large leaves (but it is not Crataegus pinnatifada - the Large leaved thorn) and having large double white flowers.
Even more curious is the way the flowers open white, from white buds but then turn pink!
Many flowers fade white from pink buds but this tree is unique in my experience of opening white and fading pink.
As a graft with rootstock suckers there are common hawthorn leaves and flowers to add to the confusion.
Crataegus x mordenensis is a hybrid of Paul Scarlet and C. succulenta.
Having identified this curiosity I may have to graft and plant a new one elsewhere in Hackney.
Senior Design Manager at Trees for Cities
7ywhat a beauty!