Mayhaw facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mayhaw |
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| Crataegus aestivalis | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Crataegus |
| Section: | Crataegus sect. Coccineae |
| Series: | Crataegus ser. Aestivales (Sarg. ex C.K.Schneid.) Rehder |
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The Mayhaw is a special fruit found in the southern U.S.. It grows on certain types of hawthorn trees. These trees are part of a group called Crataegus series Aestivales.
Mayhaws usually grow in wet areas. You can find them in wetlands, along rivers, and in creek bottoms. They often grow under larger hardwood trees. The fruit gets its name because it ripens in late April and May.
People often collect mayhaws from boats. This is common in places like bayous and around lakes. A famous spot is Caddo Lake on the Texas and Louisiana border. The fruit is most often used to make delicious jelly.
In the past, families would go on trips to gather mayhaws. They would make lots of jelly to last all year. This tradition has become less common today. Many mayhaw trees have been lost as cities have grown. However, some mayhaw trees are now grown on farms. This helps keep the tradition of making mayhaw jelly alive.
Mayhaw in Culture
Mayhaw fruit is a celebrated food in the Southern U.S.. Many towns hold festivals to honor this special fruit. These events celebrate the harvest and the unique taste of mayhaw.
For example, Colquitt, Georgia, has a mayhaw festival in April. Other towns also celebrate in May. These include Daisetta, Texas; El Dorado, Arkansas; Marion, Louisiana; and Starks, Louisiana. These festivals are a fun way to enjoy the fruit and local culture.
See also
In Spanish: Mayhaw para niños
