Kids Research Express

Hawthorn, common name for any of a genus of small trees of the rose family. Hawthorns are native to temperate regions and are widely cultivated in the form of hedges. They have dense, sharply thorned branches; single, irregularly toothed leaves that turn to brilliant colors in autumn; tiny, red fruits even throughout the winter; and fragrant, white flowers borne in clusters. The best-known species is the English hawthorn, also called the mayflower. Species native to the United States include the Washington hawthorn, found in the southern states, and the cockspur hawthorn, an eastern species with shiny leaves and long thorns. The genus includes about 20 species in Eurasia and more than 100 in North America. Many of the latter are believed to be hybrids. Scientific classification: Hawthorns belong to the family Rosaceae. The English hawthorn is classified as Crataegus laevigata, the Washington hawthorn as Crataegus phaenopyrum, and the cockspur hawthorn as Crataegus crus-galli.

Garden Geranium The popular garden geranium, genus Pelargonium, grows best in warm, dry climates, where the plant may reach the size of a bush. The common zonal variety is pictured here. Its single or double rounded petals come in many colors. Garden Larkspur The garden larkspur, native to northern temperate regions, is a fast-growing, branching, annual flowering plant, grown for its colorful white, pink, or blue flowers. Reaching a height of 1.2 m (4 ft), larkspur grows best in a sunny location in fertile, well-drained soils. Plants of this genus may be especially susceptible to damage from slugs and snails. Garden Nasturtium The common garden nasturtium, a variety of Tropaeolum majus, is cultivated for its attractive flowers and edible foliage. The nasturtium originally came from South America. Golden Poppy The golden poppy, also known as the California poppy, is the state flower of California, where it grows wild. Most species of poppy are quite easy to cult...