Crataegus crus-galli inermis

Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis, commonly known as Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn, is a deciduous ornamental tree valued for its horizontal branching habit, white spring flowers, glossy foliage, and bright red persistent fruit — without the large thorns typical of the species.

 

Mature Size:
Width: 20–30 ft
Height: 20–30 ft

Form: Broad, rounded canopy with distinctive horizontal branching

Foliage:
Glossy dark green leaves
Orange, red, to bronze fall color

Blooms:
Clusters of white flowers in mid to late spring

Fruit:
Bright red haws in late summer
Often persist into winter

Fall/Winter Interest:
Persistent red fruit and strong architectural branching

USDA Zones: 4a–7b
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained; tolerant of clay and urban soils
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established


🌸 Landscape Uses
Specimen tree, street tree, parking lot islands, wildlife plantings, larger residential landscapes


🌼 Attracts & Tolerances
Attracts: Birds, pollinators
Tolerances: Urban conditions, heat, drought, air pollution

Plant type

Shade Tree, Street Tree

Height

20-30'

Width

20-30'

Hardiness zones

4–7

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Ivory

Leaf color

Teal

Fall color

Amber

Soil

Clay, Sandy, Well Drained

Shape

Compact Rounded, Rounded

Drought tolerant

Yes