Variable Hawthorn
Crataegus macrosperma
Last reviewed: June 2026
Variable Hawthorn (Crataegus macrosperma) 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
180"–360" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, IL and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Variable hawthorn is a native shrub that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by small red berries. This thorny shrub can grow quite large, reaching 15-30 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for larger properties where it has room to spread.
In an HOA neighborhood
Variable 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.
- Very large mature size inappropriate for most residential landscapes
- Thorny branches pose safety concerns
- Can appear unkempt without regular pruning
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies in May and June. Birds feed on the red berries in fall, and the dense branching provides nesting sites.
Common questions
- How much sun does Variable Hawthorn need?
- Variable Hawthorn grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Variable Hawthorn bloom?
- Variable Hawthorn blooms in May and June.
- Where is Variable Hawthorn native?
- Variable Hawthorn (Crataegus macrosperma) is native to AL, AR, CT, IL and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Variable Hawthorn toxic to dogs?
- Variable Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Variable Hawthorn toxic to cats?
- Variable Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Variable Hawthorn attract?
- Variable Hawthorn draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Variable Hawthorn HOA-friendly?
- Variable 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 Variable 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