Crataegus crus-galli L.
cockspur thorn
A hardy, spreading, deciduous, flat-topped tree to about 8m tall, with very decorative thorny stems and glossy, dark green serrated leaves which turn bright scarlet-red in the autumn. White flowers in spring are followed by clusters of dark red fruit in the autumn. Great as a specimen tree
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Red | Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Spreading branched
- Potentially harmful
- Seeds contain toxins so these should be removed if you are considering eating the fruit, usually grown as an ornamental shrub Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Crataegus are deciduous trees and shrubs, usually with spiny branches, lobed or toothed leaves, and clusters of creamy-white flowers followed by red or black fruits. Some have fine autumn colour
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Eastern N America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows well in most soils, in sun or partial shade. Dislikes waterlogging
Propagation
Propagate by grafting in winter or propagate by seed. In autumn, remove flesh as soon as ripe and sow in a seedbed or in containers in a cold frame. In spring, stratify and sow in a seed bed. Make take 18 months to germinate
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars, aphids and hawthorn button top midge
Diseases
May be susceptible to fireblight, honey fungus, crown gall, silver leaf, powdery mildews and leaf spots
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.