How much sun does Hawthorn need?

Hawthorn grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Hawthorn bloom?

Hawthorn blooms in May and June.

Where is Hawthorn native?

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) is native to UT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Hawthorn toxic to livestock?

The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Hawthorn as toxic to livestock.

What pollinators does Hawthorn attract?

Hawthorn draws bees, beetles, and flies.

Is Hawthorn HOA-friendly?

Hawthorn is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Hawthorn

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Crataegus monogyna

Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Hawthorn as toxic to livestock.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

180"–360" H × 180"–360" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

Pollinators

bees, beetles, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Central California Valley Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Central Basin and Range

Common hawthorn is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree with an attractive rounded crown and fragrant white flowers in late spring. It produces small red berries in fall and has thorny branches that provide good security screening. The tree is quite adaptable to various soil conditions and moderate water requirements.

In an HOA neighborhood

Hawthorn is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, mid zone, street edge.

Thorny branches may be concern near walkways
Fallen berries can create minor cleanup

Wildlife value

The spring flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies for pollination. Birds feed on the red berries in fall, and the thorny branches provide excellent nesting sites and protection for smaller songbirds.

Common questions

How much sun does Hawthorn need?: Hawthorn grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Hawthorn bloom?: Hawthorn blooms in May and June.
Where is Hawthorn native?: Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) is native to UT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Hawthorn toxic to livestock?: The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Hawthorn as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Hawthorn attract?: Hawthorn draws bees, beetles, and flies.
Is Hawthorn HOA-friendly?: 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 Hawthorn? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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