Lange's-thorn
Crataegus intricata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Lange's-thorn (Crataegus intricata) 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
part sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–180" H × 72"–180" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 20 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Lange's-thorn is a medium to large native shrub that forms a dense, thorny mass 6-15 feet tall and wide. It produces clusters of white flowers in spring followed by small red berries, and its deciduous leaves turn attractive fall colors. This hardy plant provides excellent wildlife habitat.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lange's-thorn takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Large mature size may exceed typical shrub expectations
- Thorny nature creates safety concerns near walkways
- Can appear wild and unstructured compared to traditional landscaping
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract bees and beetles for pollination services. The dense thorny structure provides nesting sites and protection for birds, while the berries feed wildlife through fall and winter.
Common questions
- How much sun does Lange's-thorn need?
- Lange's-thorn grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Lange's-thorn bloom?
- Lange's-thorn blooms in April and May.
- Where is Lange's-thorn native?
- Lange's-thorn (Crataegus intricata) is native to AL, CT, DE, GA and 20 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Lange's-thorn toxic to dogs?
- Lange's-thorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Lange's-thorn toxic to cats?
- Lange's-thorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Lange's-thorn attract?
- Lange's-thorn draws bees and beetles.
- Is Lange's-thorn HOA-friendly?
- Lange's-thorn takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Lange's-thorn? 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