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Succulent Hawthorn

Crataegus succulenta

Last reviewed: June 2026

Succulent Hawthorn (Crataegus succulenta)
Photo: Tom Bean / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Succulent Hawthorn (Crataegus succulenta) 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"–300" H × 120"–240" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

CO, CT, IA, IL and 19 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles, flies

Succulent hawthorn is a medium-sized native tree that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring, followed by small red berries in fall. This hardy tree develops an attractive rounded crown and provides good seasonal interest with spring blooms, summer foliage, and colorful fall fruit.

In an HOA neighborhood

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

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

  • Thorny branches may require careful placement away from walkways
  • Fruit drop can create minor cleanup needs

Wildlife value

Host plant for Viceroy butterfly, Spring Azure butterfly.

The spring flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies for pollination. The red berries provide important food for birds, while the dense branching offers nesting sites and shelter.

Common questions

How much sun does Succulent Hawthorn need?
Succulent Hawthorn grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Succulent Hawthorn bloom?
Succulent Hawthorn blooms in May and June.
Where is Succulent Hawthorn native?
Succulent Hawthorn (Crataegus succulenta) is native to CO, CT, IA, IL and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Succulent Hawthorn toxic to dogs?
Succulent Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Succulent Hawthorn toxic to cats?
Succulent Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
What butterflies or moths does Succulent Hawthorn host?
Succulent Hawthorn is a larval host plant for Viceroy butterfly and Spring Azure butterfly.
Is Succulent Hawthorn HOA-friendly?
Succulent Hawthorn 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 Succulent 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