Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis (Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn)

Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis, also occasionally called 'Cruzam' hawthorn is a variety of cockspur hawthorn that is completely thornless, providing all of the beautiful and ecological appear of a typical cockspur hawthorn without the prickly nature that makes them difficult to take care of. Thornless cockspur hawthorn displays beautiful white flowers in spring and persistent fruit that develop in late summer and fall and which stick around through the winter, providing a vital food source for a number of birds and other wildlife. Hawthorn fruits, called haws, are technically edible, but have a mealy texture, and may be best served in jams or syrups.

This variety of hawthorn tree is relatively small, growing to only 20-30' tall with a globular form comprised of a short trunk and horizontally spreading branches which sweep the ground; since branches hang so low, Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis is often used as a large hedgerow or windbreak. Thick, glossy foliage turns bright orange and then red or purple in the fall, only adding to its multi-season appeal. While many hawthorns suffer from diseases including rusts, fireblight, fungal leaf spots, and powdery mildew to name a few, Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis are reportedly nearly disease free.