Cockspur Hawthorn Plant Care

Crataegus crus-galli Mill.

Crataegus crus-galli is a species of hawthorn known by the common names cockspur hawthorn, cockspur thorn, Newcastle hawthorne, Newcastle thorn, hog apple. It is native to North America and is widely used in horticulture.

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Water

Every 7–14 days

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Temp

0–100°F

Humidity

40–70%

What Is the Cockspur Hawthorn?

Cockspur Hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli) belongs to the Rosaceae family within the Crataegus genus. Cockspur Hawthorn is native to North America. Cockspur Hawthorn is also known as Cockspur thorn.

Cockspur Hawthorn displays a small to medium-sized deciduous tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 inches tall with a spread of approximately 25 inches. Cockspur Hawthorn produces clusters of white or pink blossoms.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Cockspur Hawthorn?

Crataegus crus-galli requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–14 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Cockspur Hawthorn Need?

Cockspur Hawthorn thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Cockspur Hawthorn in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Full sun to partial shade

200–1000 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Cockspur Hawthorn Prefer?

Crataegus crus-galli grows best at temperatures between 0°F and 100°F. Cockspur Hawthorn prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Temperature

0–100°F

Humidity

40–70%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Cockspur Hawthorn?

Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Cockspur Hawthorn to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Cockspur Hawthorn?

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Cockspur Hawthorn?

Cockspur Hawthorn can be propagated through seeds, hardwood cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to washington hawthorn plant care, which shares the same genus.

Fertilizing

Every 6 months

During the growing season

Is the Cockspur Hawthorn Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Cockspur Hawthorn?

Cockspur Hawthorn is susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Cockspur Hawthorn Need?

Cockspur Hawthorn grows outdoors in USDA Zone 3a – 7b. Native to North America, Cockspur Hawthorn is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Cockspur Hawthorn as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 3a – 7b

Keep exploring plants

Cockspur Hawthorn is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Crataegus genus — compare its care with other Crataegus species on PlantoScan.

Cockspur Hawthorn tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.

More Crataegus Species

Other Crataegus species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:

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