What Types of Trees Have Thorns?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 02, 2020

Varieties of honeylocust, citrus, mesquite and hawthorn trees have thorns. Thorns are an adaption that trees developed as a way to ward off predators.

Fruit-bearing trees tend to have thorns more often than those that do not produce fruit. This is because the thorns serve as a way for the tree to protect itself. The four tree varieties that have thorns include:

Honeylocusts: Native honeylocust trees have thorns, but those that were developed for landscaping do not feature thorns.
Citrus trees: Like the honeylocust, wild citrus trees have thorns. Though they are not always present, most citrus trees will have thorns at some point in their lives.
Mesquites: Native to the southern region of the U.S., mesquite trees are smaller thorn-bearing plants that can be considered shrubs.
Hawthorns: The thorns on hawthorn trees can reach five inches in length. They are produce both flowers and berries in addition to thorns.