Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn
Crataegus coccinea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Crataegus coccinea is a native hawthorn tree found across northeastern and midwestern United States. This deciduous tree produces white flowers in May and June, attracting bees, beetles, and flies.
Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn (Crataegus coccinea) 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 × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CT, IL, IN, KY and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Scarlet hawthorn is a small to medium native tree that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by bright red berries. This deciduous tree develops an attractive rounded crown and provides seasonal interest with spring blooms, summer fruit, and fall color.
Growing Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn
Grow Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 180 to 360 inches tall and spread 120 to 240 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, street edge.
- Thorny branches may be concern near walkways
- Fruit drop can create minor cleanup needs
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies for pollination in May and June. The red berries provide food for birds, and the thorny branches offer nesting sites and protection for wildlife.
Common questions
- Where is Crataegus coccinea native to?
- Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn is native to 21 states across the northeastern and midwestern United States, including Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
- When does Crataegus coccinea bloom?
- This hawthorn species blooms during May and June, producing clusters of white flowers that attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies.
- What pollinators visit Crataegus coccinea?
- The flowers of Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn are visited by bees, beetles, and flies, which help pollinate the blooms during the late spring flowering period.
- Is Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn toxic to dogs?
- Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn toxic to cats?
- Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn HOA-friendly?
- Pear-Fruited Cockspur-Thorn 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 Pear-Fruited Cockspur-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