Douglas Hawthorn

Crataegus douglasii

Rosaceae

• Spokane Native
• USDA Zone 4-8
• Sun-Shade
• Size: 30’ wide x 30' tall
• Fruit: scarlet berries
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
  
• Rosaceae
• Evergreen: no
• Flower Color: white (May - June)
• Wildlife Value: Scarlet berries persist into winter providing crucial food for birds; thorny branches offer excellent nesting and protective cover

Douglas Hawthorn is a native deciduous tree growing to 30 feet tall and wide, forming a rounded crown. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to various soil conditions including well-drained clay, loam, and sand. The tree displays excellent drought tolerance once established and is quite hardy, making it well-suited to Spokane's climate. Its sturdy branches bear large 1-inch thorns that provide natural protection.

In late spring, clusters of showy white flowers cover the tree, creating a magnificent display. The simple green leaves provide summer foliage that turns subtle colors in autumn. By summer, edible scarlet berries develop and persist well into winter, adding brilliant color to the winter landscape. The thorny, spreading branches and attractive form make this tree architecturally interesting throughout the year.

Douglas Hawthorn is invaluable for winter wildlife, as the persistent scarlet berries provide a critical food source for birds when other food is scarce. The dense, thorny branches offer excellent nesting habitat and protective cover for songbirds and small mammals. The flowers attract pollinators in spring. The edible berries can also be used for jellies and preserves, though they're often left for wildlife. Indigenous peoples historically used various parts of the plant medicinally.

This native hawthorn excels as a specimen tree, in wildlife gardens, and naturalized areas. The thorny nature makes it ideal for security plantings and living fences. It works well in mixed borders and provides excellent structure in four-season landscapes. Good companions include serviceberry, chokecherry, Oregon grape, and native shrubs. While the thorns require careful placement away from high-traffic areas, they're an asset for creating protective wildlife habitat and barrier plantings.