Crataegus mollis or Downy hawthorn, native to Ontario, is a deer-resistant tree that thrives in dry soils. Its range extends from southern Ontario and Michigan to eastern North Dakota, and south to Denison, Texas, and Arizona. It can grow in a range of soil pH, and prefers moist or wet soil, but can tolerate drought. It features attractive flowers and berries but has large, dangerous thorns, requiring careful placement. The tree tolerates pruning but may suffer from rust, scab, and leaf blight, leading to damaged leaves by summer�s end.