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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).

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.

Variable Hawthorn

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Crataegus macrosperma

Last reviewed: August 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

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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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

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