Cockspur Hawthorn

(Crataegus crus-galli)

Cockspur Hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Crataegus crus-galli, commonly known as Cockspur Hawthorn, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to open woodlands, forest edges, and fields of the Eastern and Central United States. It typically grows up to 10 meters tall and 8 meters wide, with a rounded form that becomes more spreading and flattening with age. The leaves are 5 to 6 centimeters long, glossy dark green, and turn gold to red in the fall, providing seasonal interest. The flowers, which bloom in late spring, are white and may have an unpleasant scent to some, but they are quite showy and attract pollinators. The small pomes, or fruits, vary in color, usually displaying shades of red, and persist into winter, offering ornamental value and food for birds.

Cockspur Hawthorn is valued for its hardiness, attractive fall foliage, and the ornamental appeal of its fruits. It is used in urban planting, as a border specimen, or for naturalistic settings. The thornless variety, var. inermis, is particularly popular in cultivation for its lack of sharp thorns, making it safer for public spaces. This species adapts well to various soil types, provided they have medium to fast drainage, and it requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust diseases and fire blight. Additionally, the thorns on wild varieties can be hazardous, and care should be taken when planting in areas frequented by people or pets.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 20-30 feet
  • Width: 20-30 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, forest edges, and fields

Other Names

Common Names: Newcastle Hawthorn , Cockspur Thorn , Hog Apple , Newcastle Thorn , Aubépine Ergot-De-Coq , Ergot De Coq , Sporrhagtorn , Hahnendorn

Scientific Names: Crataegus crus-galli , Crataegus lavallei , Crataegus stipulacea , Crataegus pyracanthoides , Crataegus tenax , Crataegus crus-galli var. pyracanthifolia , Crataegus fecunda , Crataegus crus-galli var. capillata , Crataegus crus-galli var. bellica , Crataegus canbyi

GBIF Accepted Name: Crataegus crus-galli L.