Hawthorn Berries Whole Organic Hawthorn Berries are part of the Crataegus species, which is native to parts of Europe and North America. It's believed that the berries have been used as a cardiac tonic as far back as first-century Rome. They are popular in traditional medicine in Native American, Chinese, and European cultures. Hawthorn Berries have a tart, slightly sweet taste, and are delicious in jellies, jams, and herbal extracts.