Overview
Crataegus alnorum Sarg. is a medium-sized deciduous tree that belongs to the family of Rosaceae. It is commonly known as the Alder-Leaved Hawthorn and has several medicinal uses.
Origin
The plant is native to North America and can be found throughout the northeastern, central, and southeastern parts of the United States, extending as far south as Florida. It prefers to grow in sunny or partially shaded locations and is often found in areas with moist, well-drained soil.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Alder-leaved hawthorn, Hazel-leaved hawthorn, Dark hawthorn, Swamp hawthorn, and River hawthorn. It is also known by its scientific name, Crataegus alnifolia.
Appearance
The plant grows up to a height of 10-25 feet, with a spread of 8-20 feet, and forms a rounded shape. It has a grayish-brown bark that is smooth and young twigs that have thorns. The leathery leaves are oval-shaped and have jagged edges, resembling the leaves of an alder tree. The flowers are small, white, and grow in clusters. The fruit is a small, red or black pome that ripens in late summer and fall.
Uses
Crataegus alnorum Sarg. has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat various ailments. It is believed to have antioxidant properties and is commonly used to improve cardiovascular health. The plant is also used to treat digestive issues, anxiety, and insomnia. In addition, the fruit of the plant is used to make jams, jellies, and wine.
In landscaping, Crataegus alnorum Sarg. is prized for its beautiful white flowers, red or black berries, and striking fall foliage. The plant is also an excellent wildlife food source and provides shelter for birds and small animals.
Growth Conditions for Crataegus alnorum Sarg.
Crataegus alnorum Sarg. is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is also commonly known as the Tag Alder Hawthorn. The plant is typically found in wetlands, stream banks, and along riverbeds. It prefers moist soils and is commonly used for erosion control.
Light requirements
Crataegus alnorum Sarg. prefers full sun exposure, but can also tolerate partial shade. However, if the plant is grown in too much shade, it may not produce as many blooms and may be more susceptible to disease and pests.
Temperature requirements
The Tag Alder Hawthorn is a hardy plant that can withstand a range of temperatures. It is able to withstand cold winters and hot summers, making it an ideal choice for many regions. However, it does not tolerate extreme drought conditions.
Soil requirements
Crataegus alnorum Sarg. grows best in well-drained soils that are consistently moist. It can tolerate some flooding and is commonly found in wetlands and marshy areas. The plant can also grow in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. However, it prefers a slightly acidic soil pH range of 6.0-7.0.
Cultivation of Crataegus alnorum Sarg.
Crataegus alnorum Sarg., commonly known as alderleaf hawthorn, can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Sowing seeds in fall or early spring is recommended. The cuttings can be taken from softwood or hardwood in late spring or early summer, and grown in a well-draining soil mixture in a shaded area.
Watering Needs
Adequate watering is necessary for the growth of hawthorn plants. Newly planted saplings should be watered thoroughly once a week. For mature plants, watering requirements depend on soil moisture and weather conditions. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least one inch of water per week during dry periods, especially in the summer months.
Fertilization
Hawthorn plants require regular fertilization to thrive. Organic matter such as manure or compost can be added to the soil to improve its fertility. Fertilizer containing nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus is also recommended during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the hawthorn plant healthy and promote new growth. Young trees should be pruned between January and March during the dormant season, removing dead or diseased wood and shaping the tree. Mature trees can be pruned to remove any crossing branches and to thin out the canopy. Always use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid damaging the wood.
Propagation of Crataegus alnorum Sarg.
There are several methods to propagate Crataegus alnorum Sarg. depending on the desired outcome and available resources. The two primary methods are by seed and vegetative propagation.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is a common method for many plant species, including Crataegus alnorum Sarg. The seeds are collected in the fall when they are mature and dry. A stratification period of 90-120 days is recommended to break seed dormancy. This can be achieved by placing the seeds in a moist, cool, and dark location. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm and sunny location. Pots or containers can be covered with a plastic bag or a clear plastic lid to retain moisture. Germination can take several weeks to months, and seedlings can be transplanted after the first year of growth.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves the use of vegetative plant parts, such as cuttings, to create a new plant. This method is desirable if a faster and more uniform plant growth and better genetics are needed as compared to seed propagation. The vegetative parts used can come from softwood or hardwood cuttings, suckers, or grafts.
Softwood cuttings are taken in spring when new growth is actively growing. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from the lower or middle portions of the stem. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone, stuck in a well-draining soil mix, and placed in a warm and humid location. The cuttings should be monitored for moisture and disease, and the roots should develop in a few weeks.
Hardwood cuttings are taken in late fall when the plant is dormant. Cuttings should be 6-8 inches long, with no leaves present. Cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a cooler location. The cuttings should be monitored for moisture and disease, and the roots should develop in a few months.
Suckers are new shoots that grow from the base of the plant. They can be removed from the mother plant in spring or fall, and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The suckers should be monitored for moisture and disease, and the roots should develop within a few months.
Grafting involves joining a shoot (scion) from the desired plant with a root system (rootstock) from a related plant. This method is used to propagate plants where seed or vegetative propagation may be difficult or result in undesirable traits. Grafting Crataegus alnorum Sarg. requires skill and experience and is done in late winter while the plants are dormant.
Disease Management
Crataegus alnorum Sarg. is relatively resistant to most common tree diseases, but it may occasionally suffer from some diseases. One of the most common diseases that can affect this plant is fire blight, which causes leaves and twigs to wilt and turn black. To manage fire blight, pruning the infected parts and maintaining good tree hygiene are the most effective measures. Additionally, spraying with copper-based fungicides can also help prevent the disease from spreading.
Root rot is another disease that Crataegus alnorum Sarg. can suffer from, especially in poorly drained areas. The disease causes the roots to decay, which can lead to stunted growth or even death. To manage the disease, proper drainage should be provided, and applying fungicides that contain metalaxyl can help control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Crataegus alnorum Sarg. is relatively resistant to most pests, but it may face some bug problems. One of the most common pests that attack this plant is the scale insect, which sucks sap from the branches and leaves of the tree. To manage scale insects, it is important to prune the heavily infested parts and use insecticides that contain Imidacloprid or Pyrethroids.
Aphids are other common pests that may attack Crataegus alnorum Sarg. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting. To manage aphids, encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be helpful, or using insecticides that contain Neem oil or Imidacloprid can also be effective.
