Mo. Rev. Stat. § 10.030: State floral emblem.

The hawthorn, the blossom of the tree commonly called the "red haw" or "wild haw" and scientifically designated as crataegus , is declared to be the floral emblem of Missouri, and the state department of agriculture shall recognize it as such and encourage its cultivation on account of the beauty of its flower, fruit and foliage.