Skip to main content
← Plants for Bees
plus hawthorn
plus hawthorn botanical plate
Field guide plate · click to zoom

plus hawthorn

Crataegus persimilis
In the United States: Native · also called plumleaf hawthorn, broad-leaved cockspur thorn

Honeybees forage heavily on hawthorn flowers for substantial nectar and pollen supplies during late spring, supporting brood rearing and potential surplus honey production. The bloom peaks in a brief two-week window, making it a vital but time-sensitive resource for apiaries. Thorny branches necessitate careful siting and occasional pruning to prevent injury and promote airflow, reducing disease risk.

Nectarhigh
Pollenhigh
Bloom (US) May–May
Duration~2 weeks
TypePerennial
Sunpartial
BeeAI — Ask the old beekeeper
Hey there, honey. Ask me anything about your bees.