Yellowleaf Hawthorn
Crataegus flava
Last reviewed: June 2026
Yellowleaf Hawthorn (Crataegus flava) 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
120"–240" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
FL, GA, SC
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Yellowleaf hawthorn is a native shrub that grows 10-20 feet tall and wide, forming a rounded crown. It produces clusters of white flowers in spring followed by yellow to red fruits, and its leaves turn attractive yellow-orange in fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Yellowleaf Hawthorn is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Large mature size may overwhelm smaller spaces
- Thorny branches could be viewed as safety concern near walkways
- Winter appearance is fairly bare and stark
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies for pollination. The fruits provide food for birds, and the thorny branches offer nesting sites and protection for wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Yellowleaf Hawthorn need?
- Yellowleaf Hawthorn grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Yellowleaf Hawthorn bloom?
- Yellowleaf Hawthorn blooms in April and May.
- Where is Yellowleaf Hawthorn native?
- Yellowleaf Hawthorn (Crataegus flava) is native to FL, GA, SC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Yellowleaf Hawthorn toxic to dogs?
- Yellowleaf Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Yellowleaf Hawthorn toxic to cats?
- Yellowleaf Hawthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Yellowleaf Hawthorn attract?
- Yellowleaf Hawthorn draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Yellowleaf Hawthorn HOA-friendly?
- Yellowleaf 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 Yellowleaf 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