The redthorn (Crataegus laevigata Paul's Scarlet) is often planted as a street tree or ornamental shrub. Its bright crimson flowers in the spring flowering period from May to June make it an extraordinarily attractive sight. Although the tree does not usually grow taller than approx. 3 meters, it can reach a height of up to 10 meters. The wood, with its typical pith spots, is very hard and dense, pinkish-red to pale red in color with an incredible luster and sheen that is rarely found in any native woods! Here, the redthorn can easily compete with the most beautiful Brazilian rosewood. At an advanced age, a dark brown color core often forms, which soon afterwards causes the tree to die through decay and decomposition. Due to the small diameter of the tree, its wood is used for small jobs as carving or turning wood. It is still often used today for tools such as planes and tool handles.
