Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn

Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn is a spineless selection of the native Cockspur Hawthorn, retaining the species' glossy, dark green summer foliage, white spring flowers, and long-lasting red fruit while eliminating the sharp thorns that make the straight species difficult to maintain near foot traffic.

It is one of the toughest small ornamental trees available for Front Range landscapes, tolerating heat, wind, poor soil, and urban planting conditions with minimal care once established.

• Mature Size: 20–25 ft tall | 20–25 ft wide
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Form: Broad, horizontal-branching, rounded canopy
• Foliage: Glossy dark green, good fall color
• Flower Color: White, spring bloom
• Fruit: Small red pome, persistent into winter
• Thorns: None — safe near walkways and play areas

Extremely tough and adaptable to Front Range heat, wind, and poor soils

Thornless habit makes it a practical choice near patios, walkways, and driveways

Persistent fruit provides winter interest and wildlife food

Tolerates alkaline clay soils common in Douglas County

• Plant in full sun to light shade in well-drained soil
• Water regularly during establishment; reduce frequency once mature
• Horizontal branching habit benefits from early structural pruning for clearance over walkways
• Good option near hardscape given its thornless habit

• Cedar-hawthorn rust and fire blight possible in wet spring conditions
• Occasional leaf spot in humid years
• Fruit can create minor litter near hardscape

• Walkways, patios, and play areas where thorns would be a hazard
• Small residential and courtyard landscapes
• Street tree and boulevard plantings
• Wildlife and bird-friendly plantings