Black Hawthorn (Crataegus douglasii)

• Scientific Name: Crataegus douglasii — Black Hawthorn or Douglas Hawthorn.

• Native Home: Alaska, western Canada, and the northwestern United States.

• Height: 2–6 m.

• Lifespan: Several decades under favorable conditions.

  US Forest Service Research and Development

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Uses and Harvesting

• Timber: Dense wood occasionally used for small crafts and tool handles.

• Harvesting: Dark fruits are collected when ripe; branches may be pruned selectively.

• Age to Harvest: Fruit production generally begins after several years, depending on growing conditions.

• Products: Ornamental plants, fruit preserves, wildlife food, and small wooden items.

History and Global Production

• Traditional Use: Indigenous communities have used hawthorn fruits for food and traditional preparations.

• Global Spread: Native to northwestern North America, including boreal forest regions of Alaska and western Canada, where it grows along forest edges, stream banks, and open woodland.

  University of Montana

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