cockspur thorn
Crataegus crus-galli
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to full shade
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size25 to 35 feet tall25 to 35 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- White
- Foliage color
- Green
- Fall color
- Yes
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Cockspur thorn (Crataegus crus-galli) is a tree for specimen planting, hedges, privacy screens, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and dry to moist soil of most types. White spring flowers attract bees and butterflies. Small red fruits last into winter and feed birds. The long thorns make a tough barrier, so plant it where people will not brush against it.
Pairs well with Staghorn sumac, Eastern white pine, and Sedge.
Native range
Eastern North America.