Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn
Crataegus crus-galli inermis
Learn about the Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn including when and why it was planted, how to identify it, and where to find it on campus.
Tree Facts
Family: Rosaceae
Type
Deciduous
Fall color
Flowering
Pollinator habitat
Size
Medium (25-50 feet)
Small (less than 25 feet)
Traits
- Dark, glossy, egg-shaped leaves that 1-4 inches long
- Leaves turn reddish-purple in the fall
- Small creamy white flowers bloom in flat clusters in the spring
- Bark looks rough and shaggy with age
- Susceptible to cedar rust, fire blight, and leaf spot
Native Range
- Midwestern United States
Story of the Tree
Several thornless hawthorn trees were planted in the channel along Sid Snyder Avenue Southwest to help filter storm water that runs off this street.
In addition to filtering storm water, these trees provide a habitat for local birds. Small fruits that look like apples grow on these trees, providing food for the birds as well.
