Crataegus – Hawthorns

Crataegus (Hawthorns) are small, oval to round-headed, deciduous trees and shrubs, usually with spiny branches, dark green leaves, clusters of creamy-white flowers, and bright red fruit. Their bark is often mottled, exfoliating, in gray, green, orange, and brown. Some species turn glorious shades of scarlet, orange and purple in the fall. They are an important food source for wildlife, particularly birds.