SafePlants

Fireberry Hawthorn (Crataegus chrysocarpa)

The Fireberry Hawthorn, scientifically known as Crataegus chrysocarpa, is a captivating deciduous tree native to much of the continental United States and Canada.

Common Names

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

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
• Genus: Crataegus (derives from the Greek word "kratos," meaning strength)
• Subspecies: Crataegus chrysocarpa var. chrysocarpa
• Synonyms:
  • Crataegus dodgei
  • Crataegus evansiana

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to much of the continental United States and Canada, from Newfoundland to Pennsylvania.
• Found in grassy openings, thickets, and along streams and lakeshores.
• Prefers upland sandy, silty, or loamy soil.

Morphological Characteristics

• Deciduous tree growing up to 6-7 meters (approximately 20-23 feet) in height.
• Forms a tree with a broad, rounded crown.
• Leaves are ovoid with jagged edges and a dark green color.
• Flowers are small, white, and 5-petalled, appearing in clusters in May and June.
• Fruits are typically dark red when mature, though the name implies a golden color in their unripe state.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant features berries.
• The plant has jagged edges on its leaves.

Quirky Facts

• The scientific name chrysocarpa means "golden fruit," but the mature fruit is commonly dark red and rarely yellow. The name likely refers to the color of the unripe fruit.

Traditional Uses

• The Ojibwa people used a decoction of the root as an antidiarrheal medicine.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database: http://plant-materials.nrcs.usda.gov/
• Discover Life: Information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Crataegus chrysocarpa.