River Hawthorn
Crataegus rivularis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–240" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
WY
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
River hawthorn is a native shrub that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by small red berries. This large, rounded shrub can reach 10-20 feet in both height and width, making it suitable for larger landscape areas where it can develop its natural form.
In an HOA neighborhood
River Hawthorn is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Very large mature size may overwhelm smaller yards
- Thorny branches require careful placement away from walkways
- Can look irregular without pruning
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies for pollination. The red berries provide food for birds and other wildlife in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does River Hawthorn need?
- River Hawthorn grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does River Hawthorn bloom?
- River Hawthorn blooms in May and June.
- Where is River Hawthorn native?
- River Hawthorn (Crataegus rivularis) is native to WY, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does River Hawthorn attract?
- River Hawthorn draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is River Hawthorn HOA-friendly?
- River Hawthorn is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate 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 River 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