Crataegus sp.
Hawthorn, Hawthorn
Family: Rosaceae · Type: Shrub · Variable; species dependent
Crataegus sp. (Hawthorn) is a non-native California shrub in the Rosaceae family.
How to tell it apart
vs Ribes: Ribes lacks thorns and has maple-scented leaves; Crataegus has sharp thorns and unscented foliage.; vs Pyracantha: Pyracantha has narrow, unlobed evergreen leaves; Crataegus has broad, deeply lobed leaves that drop in fall.; vs Quercus: Quercus lacks thorns and has acorns; Crataegus has sharp thorns and small apple-like fruits.; vs Prunus: Prunus has smooth-edged or finely toothed leaves; Crataegus has prominently lobed leaves beyond the middle.; vs Pyrus: Pyrus has unlobed oval leaves and pear-shaped fruits; Crataegus has deeply lobed leaves and small round fruits.
Frequently asked questions
Is Crataegus sp. native to California?
No. Crataegus sp. is not native to California (recorded as variable; species dependent).
What plant family does Crataegus sp. belong to?
Crataegus sp. is in the Rosaceae family, genus Crataegus.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · CalPhotos
Last updated 2026-04-14
Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Cal-IPC, and more.