Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) - How to Grow & Care Guide

Plant Snapshot

Common Name: Hawthorn
Latin Name: Crataegus spp.
Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 4–8 typical for common garden hawthorns but individual species may be hardy to zone 3 or to zone 9
Typical Height: 10–30 ft (3–9 m) for many garden hawthorns; some species much smaller or larger
Typical Spread: 10–25 ft (3–7.5 m) depending on species and pruning
Bloom Period: Spring, typically April to May in northern temperate climates
Soil Preferences: Prefers well drained, fertile soil. Tolerates clay and alkaline soils. Avoid waterlogged conditions which cause root decline
Light Preferences: Full sun to partial shade. Best flowering and fruit set in full sun
Toxicity: Not listed as toxic to dogs and cats by major pet-poison authorities but handling thorns can cause injury. Large ingestion may cause minor stomach upset. Verify species-specific info for medical guidance
Propagation: Seed with cold stratification, hardwood cuttings, grafting and by root suckers

Key Facts

A genus of thorny shrubs and small trees grown for spring flowers and fall fruit
Produces clusters of white or pink flowers in spring
Follows with small apple-like fruits called haws that persist into fall
Valued for hedging, wildlife food and nesting cover
Tolerates a wide range of soils but dislikes waterlogged roots
Performs best in full sun to part shade with best flowering in sun
Many species and cultivars exist so size and habit vary greatly

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) is a group of thorny shrubs and small trees grown for showy spring blossom and small apple like fruits called haws. Garden forms are used for hedges, specimen planting and wildlife habitat, though size and habit vary widely between species and cultivars.

Identification

Hawthorn species are thorny shrubs and small trees that produce clusters of white or pink flowers in spring, followed by small apple like fruits called haws that persist into fall. Many garden hawthorns reach 10 to 30 feet tall but some cultivars stay smaller, so check the specific species or cultivar for mature size and habit.

Best uses and where to grow

Use hawthorn as a thorny hedge, a single stemmed specimen, or a wildlife tree that provides food and nesting cover. Plants perform best in full sun for maximum blossom and fruit but tolerate part shade. They grow in a wide range of soils including clay and alkaline types, however they do not tolerate waterlogged roots.

Planting and spacing

Planting season varies by climate, with many gardeners in northern temperate areas planting in spring or fall when soil is workable. Space plants to match mature spread, commonly 10 to 25 feet apart depending on species and pruning plans. Confirm the cultivar for mature size before setting spacing because some varieties are much narrower and suit small sites.

Watering and soil

Hawthorn prefers well drained fertile soil and tolerates a wide range of textures and pH. Avoid waterlogged conditions which cause root decline and long term health problems. Keep soil evenly moist while young to encourage root establishment and reduce drought stress, then reduce supplemental watering once the plant is established and growing well.

After flowering care and pruning

After bloom remove any dead or crossing branches to keep the crown open and reduce disease risk. Pruning will influence flowering and the plant’s spread, so prune with the intended use in mind whether hedging or single stem training. Remove root suckers promptly to prevent unwanted thicketing and to direct vigor into the main trunk.

Propagation and controlling spread

Propagate hawthorn from seed after cold stratification, from hardwood cuttings, by grafting for named cultivars, or by dividing root suckers. Seed grown plants are variable, so use grafting or cuttings to preserve cultivar traits. Many species also spread naturally by root suckers which can be removed to control expansion.

Containers and small gardens

Most garden hawthorns reach 10 to 30 feet and are not well suited to long term container culture, though some compact cultivars are available for small gardens. In containers watch for shallow rooting and more frequent watering needs. Be aware of sharp thorns when placing hawthorn near paths and entryways where people and pets pass.

Frequently asked questions

How fast does Hawthorn grow?: Growth rate varies by species, site and soil. Many garden hawthorns are moderate growing and commonly reach 10 to 30 feet over several years. Check the specific cultivar for a more precise growth rate.
Are hawthorns toxic to dogs and cats?: Hawthorn is not listed as toxic to dogs and cats by major pet poison authorities, but thorns can cause injury. Large ingestions may cause minor stomach upset. Verify species specific information for medical guidance if exposure occurs.
When does Hawthorn bloom?: Hawthorn blooms in spring, typically April to May in northern temperate climates. Local climate and species will shift the exact timing.
How do I propagate Hawthorn?: Propagate by seed with cold stratification, by hardwood cuttings, by grafting for named cultivars, or by dividing root suckers. Seed raised plants are variable, so use grafting or cuttings to retain cultivar characteristics.
How do I control hawthorn spread?: Remove root suckers promptly and maintain regular pruning to prevent thicketing. Choose less suckering cultivars for small sites and remove unwanted shoots at their origin to keep plants as single stems.