Arnold Hawthorn
Crataegus mollis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Crataegus mollis (Arnold Hawthorn) is a native deciduous tree blooming white flowers in May and June across the Midwest and South. This drought-tolerant species attracts bees, beetles, and flies as important pollinators.
Arnold Hawthorn (Crataegus mollis) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
180"–360" H × 180"–300" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, IA, IL and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Arnold hawthorn is a native deciduous tree that reaches 15-30 feet tall with an equally wide, rounded crown. It produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by red berries, and offers good fall color. This hardy tree adapts well to various soil conditions and provides excellent four-season interest.
Growing Arnold Hawthorn
Grow Arnold Hawthorn in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 180 to 360 inches tall and spread 180 to 300 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Arnold Hawthorn is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Has thorns that may require careful placement away from walkways
Wildlife value
Host plant for hairstreak butterfly, spring azure butterfly.
The spring flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies for pollination. Birds feed on the red berries in fall and winter, while the dense branching provides nesting sites.
Common questions
- When does Arnold Hawthorn bloom?
- Arnold Hawthorn produces white flowers during May and June, providing late spring nectar for pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Crataegus mollis?
- Arnold Hawthorn attracts bees, beetles, and flies which pollinate the white flower clusters during the blooming period.
- Where is Arnold Hawthorn native?
- This hawthorn species is native to 23 states primarily in the Midwest and South, from Minnesota and Michigan south to Texas and Louisiana.
- What growing conditions does Crataegus mollis prefer?
- Arnold Hawthorn grows best in full sun with medium moisture but adapts to various light and water conditions once established.
- Is Arnold Hawthorn toxic to dogs?
- Arnold Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Arnold Hawthorn toxic to cats?
- Arnold Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Arnold Hawthorn HOA-friendly?
- Arnold Hawthorn is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Arnold Hawthorn? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz