Large-thorn Hawthorn
Crataegus macracantha
Last reviewed: June 2026
Large-thorn Hawthorn (Crataegus macracantha) 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
120"–240" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CO, CT, IA and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Large-thorn hawthorn is a medium-sized deciduous tree that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by small red fruits. It has a rounded canopy and develops attractive fall color, making it a four-season landscape specimen.
In an HOA neighborhood
Large-thorn Hawthorn takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Large thorns create safety liability
- Can appear unkempt without regular pruning
- Not commonly used in formal southwestern landscapes
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract bees and beetles for pollination. The fall berries provide food for birds, while the thorny branches offer nesting sites and protection.
Common questions
- How much sun does Large-thorn Hawthorn need?
- Large-thorn Hawthorn grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Large-thorn Hawthorn bloom?
- Large-thorn Hawthorn blooms in May and June.
- Where is Large-thorn Hawthorn native?
- Large-thorn Hawthorn (Crataegus macracantha) is native to AZ, CO, CT, IA and 26 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Large-thorn Hawthorn toxic to dogs?
- Large-thorn Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Large-thorn Hawthorn toxic to cats?
- Large-thorn Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Large-thorn Hawthorn attract?
- Large-thorn Hawthorn draws bees and beetles.
- Is Large-thorn Hawthorn HOA-friendly?
- Large-thorn Hawthorn 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 Large-thorn 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