Distribution of the species
On Mount Paggaio, it has been recorded in a very small number of sites, mainly in the northern part of the mountain, at altitudes between 1,000-1,300 m asl.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
Its population is relatively small. It is a shrub or small tree up to 5 m tall, with white hairy stems that often end in hard thorns. Its leaves are rhombic to obovate or oblong with 3-7 lobes. The flowers are whitish in groups of 4-10. The fruit is almost spherical or pear-shaped, yellow-orange or red-orange. Hawthorn (species of the genus Crataegus) is also known by the local names tricot, mulberry, bourboutzelia and xagathia. The species of the genus have been known since antiquity, as they were very useful. Specifically, Dioscorides mentioned it as a healing herb for many diseases, while the Romans put its leaves in baby cribs to ward off evil spirits. Later, in the Middle Ages, the species was reported as diuretic, suitable for treating kidney and bladder stones. The fruits of this species are edible, while studies attribute to specific species anticoagulant, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is found in stony places, in forest openings (mainly beech), at altitudes usually between 1,000 and 2,000 m asl. Rarely, it can be found from 700 m asl. It flowers during May and July, depending on the altitude.
Although it is found in the form of small groups, it is not considered endangered, as it cannot be consumed by animals and is not used by humans for its timber.
Conservation status
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Conservation state
It is not subjected to any national or international conservation status.