Cockspur Hawthorn

Cockspur hawthorn is a small tree that develops a rounded crown with a very horizontal branching structure. "Cockspur" refers to the 2 to 4 inch long, reddish-brown, slightly curved thorns that cover the tree.

In spring, it produces white flowers arranged in single, flat-topped clusters. Although beautiful to the eye, under the right weather conditions the flowers can have a slightly unpleasant odor. Its leaves are a shiny, dark green color in the summer, followed by red, yellow, and gold tones in fall. The fruit is yellow to start, turning red and persisting into fall.

Cockspur hawthorn provides four seasons of interest. It has attractive flowers, and the bark and thorns are also pleasing (especially in winter). Its fall color and fruit add further ornamental value as well.

Cockspur Hawthorn

Cockspur hawthorn is a small tree that develops a rounded crown with a very horizontal branching structure. "Cockspur" refers to the 2 to 4 inch long, reddish-brown, slightly curved thorns that cover the tree.

In spring, it produces white flowers arranged in single, flat-topped clusters. Although beautiful to the eye, under the right weather conditions the flowers can have a slightly unpleasant odor. Its leaves are a shiny, dark green color in the summer, followed by red, yellow, and gold tones in fall. The fruit is yellow to start, turning red and persisting into fall.

Cockspur hawthorn provides four seasons of interest. It has attractive flowers, and the bark and thorns are also pleasing (especially in winter). Its fall color and fruit add further ornamental value as well.

Plant details
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Botanic Name

Crataegus crus-galli

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Pronunciation

krah-TEE-gus krus-GAL-ee

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Mature Height

20 to 30 ft.

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Mature Spread

20 to 30 ft.

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Water usage
Water Usage

One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.

Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.

Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.

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Flower Color

white

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Bloom time

late spring to early summer

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Colorado Native

No

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Natural Habitat

eastern United States

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Light Requirements

sun

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Cold Hardiness

USDA zones 4-7

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Elevation Limit

hardy to 8,000 ft.

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