River Hawthorn
Crataegus douglasii
Last reviewed: June 2026
River Hawthorn (Crataegus douglasii) 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.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag River Hawthorn as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–360" H × 96"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CA, ID, MI, MN and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
River hawthorn is a deciduous shrub that grows 10-30 feet tall and wide, forming a rounded canopy. It produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by small red berries, and its glossy green leaves turn yellow to orange in fall.
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 properties
- Thorny branches require careful placement away from walkways
- Can appear irregular in shape without pruning
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies in May and June. Birds feed on the berries in late summer and fall, while the thorny branches provide nesting sites and protection.
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 douglasii) is native to CA, ID, MI, MN and 5 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is River Hawthorn toxic to dogs?
- River Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is River Hawthorn toxic to cats?
- River Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is River Hawthorn toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag River Hawthorn as toxic to livestock.
- 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