Name: Crataegus mexicana 'Clara' (Clara Mexican Hawthorn)

Average Landscape Size: 2–3 ft tall × 2–3 ft wide; compact, rounded habit (can reach 4 ft unpruned)

Sun Requirements: Full sun; tolerates light shade but blooms best in full sun

Water Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Deer Resistance: Low (deer love this plant)

Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 7–9; evergreen in Willis winters

Fertilization & Pruning: General purpose fertilizer in spring; prune in late winter for shape

Detailed Description: Here's that same fantastic Clara Hawthorn in a perfect 3-gallon size for immediate planting! Most homeowners maintain these at 2–3 feet tall and wide, though they can reach 4 feet if left unpruned. The beauty of this size is you get those gorgeous masses of tiny white spring blooms that absolutely cover the entire shrub! Here in Willis, it's incredibly reliable and handles our hot summers beautifully once established. Perfect for borders, foundation plantings, or anywhere you want that classic compact shrub with spectacular spring color. Moderate water needs and good drought tolerance make it a smart choice for our climate. Just keep in mind that deer absolutely love this plant, so you'll want to protect it in areas with heavy deer pressure!