SafePlants

Considerations for Pets

• This plant has berries, which can sometimes be attractive to pets.
• The presence of thorns on hawthorns is common.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crataegus chrysocarpa
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
• Genus: Crataegus
• Species: chrysocarpa
• Subspecies: var. chrysocarpa
• Synonyms: Crataegus dodgei, Crataegus evansiana
• Taxonomic Serial Number: 24548

Common Names

• Fireberry Hawthorn
• Goldenberry Hawthorn
• Red Haw
• Scarlet Hawthorn
• Red Fruited Hawthorn
• Round-leaved Hawthorn
• Golden-fruited Hawthorn

• French Name: Aubpine dore, Aubpine feuilles rondes
• Ojibwa Name: miinesak

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to much of the continental United States and Canada.
• Specifically mentioned range includes Newfoundland to Pennsylvania.
• Found in Minnesota.
• Grows in grassy openings, thickets, and along streams and lakeshores on upland sandy, silty, or loamy soil.

Morphological Characteristics

• Deciduous tree growing up to 6-7 meters (approximately 19-23 feet) in height.
• Has a broad, rounded crown.
• Leaves are ovoid with jagged edges and dark green in color.
• Flowers are small, white, and have 5 petals, appearing in clusters in May and June.
• Fruits are crimson (dark red) when ripe, although the name suggests a golden color based on the unripe fruit.

Quirky Facts

• The scientific name *chrysocarpa* means "golden fruit", even though the berries are commonly dark red.
• Fireberry Hawthorn is aptly named for its brilliant crimson fruits.

Ecological Role

• Grows well in a wide range of soils that are not acidic.
• Prefers full sun for optimal growth.

Traditional Uses

• The root has been used in a decoction as an antidiarrheal medicine by the Ojibwa people.
• The dried berries have medicinal uses.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database: Symbol CRCH
• Plant Materials Plant Guide
• Discover Life