hawthorn crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "hawthorn crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "hawthorn crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
HAW: This refers to the edible red berry produced by the hawthorn plant.
5 Letters
THORN: Hawthorn plants are well-known for their sharp, protective spines.
SHRUB: Hawthorn is often classified as a type of shrub, indicating its bushy growth habit.
BERRY: Another general term for the fruit of the hawthorn, synonymous with 'haw'.
9 Letters
CRATAEGUS: This is the scientific or botanical genus name for the hawthorn tree or shrub.
More About "hawthorn crossword clue"
The hawthorn (genus Crataegus) is a versatile and resilient plant found across temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It's often recognized by its distinctive thorny branches, small lobed leaves, and clusters of white or pink flowers that typically bloom in late spring. These flowers mature into small, apple-like fruits known as "haws," which turn red in autumn.
Beyond its physical characteristics, hawthorn holds cultural significance in many traditions, often associated with protection and boundaries. Its dense, spiny growth makes it an excellent hedging plant, providing both privacy and a deterrent to intruders. In folklore, it's sometimes considered a magical tree, particularly in Celtic mythology.
From a botanical perspective, the hawthorn's classification as a "shrub" or "small tree" can vary depending on the specific species and growing conditions. Its various parts – the haws, the thorns, and its scientific name Crataegus – are all common elements that can appear in crossword puzzles, requiring solvers to think broadly about the plant's attributes.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, like "hawthorn," have parts (haw, thorn) or classifications (shrub, tree) that can be answers themselves. Always think about synonyms, components, and broader categories.
- Look for Scientific Terms: Especially with nature-related clues, scientific or botanical names (like CRATAEGUS) are common answers, often for longer word counts.
- Check Letter Counts: If you have some letters filled in, use the known letter count to narrow down possibilities. For example, if you know the answer is 3 letters, 'HAW' is much more likely than 'CRATAEGUS'.
- Think About Context: Sometimes the puzzle's theme (e.g., "Garden Variety" or "Woodland Wonders") can give a hint towards answers related to nature.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hawthorn?
A hawthorn is a genus of thorny shrubs and trees in the rose family (Rosaceae). They are known for their dense, often spiky branches, small pome fruits (haws), and sometimes fragrant white or pink flowers.
Are hawthorn berries (haws) edible?
Yes, hawthorn berries, also known as haws, are generally edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, wines, and teas. They are rich in antioxidants, but their taste can vary from tart to slightly sweet. It's important to ensure correct identification before consuming any wild berries.
How do clues about plants or nature typically work in crosswords?
Crossword clues related to plants or nature often focus on specific parts (e.g., 'THORN' for hawthorn), fruits (e.g., 'HAW'), scientific names (e.g., 'CRATAEGUS'), general classifications (e.g., 'SHRUB', 'TREE'), or associated characteristics (e.g., 'SPIKE'). Always consider different aspects and synonyms of the plant or natural element mentioned in the clue.