Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. (pro Sp.)

Introduction

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. (pro sp.) is a species of flowering plant widely distributed across Europe and North America. It is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family.

General Appearance

Crataegus ×anomala commonly grows up to a height of 10 meters with a spread of 6 meters. The plant has a dense, oval crown that is rounded or spreading. The branches have thorns that curve downwards and are generally 2-3 cm long. The leaves of the plant are glossy green on top and slightly lighter underneath with a lobed margin. The flowers of the plant are white and have an aroma that attracts butterflies and other pollinators. The plant has small berries that have an orange-red color when ripe.

Common Names

Crataegus ×anomala is commonly referred to as the English Hawthorn, Glastonbury Thorn, or Hybrid Hawthorn. The plant is referred to as Hybrid Hawthorn because it is a hybrid of the Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus laevigata species.

Uses

Crataegus ×anomala is widely used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The plant has antioxidant properties that are beneficial for the heart, and it is commonly used as a remedy for heart problems such as angina and heart failure. The plant's leaves and flowers are used to make teas, capsules, and extracts that are taken orally. The plant's berries are sometimes used to make jams or jellies. Crataegus ×anomala is also used as a hedging plant, and its thorns provide a natural barrier against intruders.

Growth Conditions for Crataegus ×anomala Sarg.

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg., commonly known as the common hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It is native to Europe and Asia but can be found in other regions as well, and is often grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and foliage.

Light Requirements

The common hawthorn requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. While it can tolerate some shade, it will produce fewer flowers and fruits in less sunlight. It is important to keep the plant in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.

Temperature Requirements

The common hawthorn is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers cool to moderate climates. It can withstand heavy frost and cold winters but is sensitive to extended periods of extreme heat, which can cause leaf scorch and other issues.

Soil Requirements

The common hawthorn can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. It can tolerate clay and other heavy soils but does best in loamy soil with good drainage. It is important to avoid soil that is constantly wet, as the plant can be prone to root rot in such conditions.

The soil should be enriched with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, before planting. It is also recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year to promote healthy growth.

Cultivation

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. (pro sp.), commonly known as Hawthorn, is a small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant species is native to North America and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-9. To grow Crataegus ×anomala Sarg., you need to have the right soil type, soil pH, sunlight exposure, and manageable moisture content. Planting is best done in early spring or fall when the weather is cool.

The soil type needed to grow Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. must be well-drained, loamy, and fertile. The soil must be rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Without these criteria, the plant may suffer from nutrient deficiency, root rot, and stunted growth.

Sunlight exposure is important for the optimal growth and development of Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. A minimum of 6 hours of sunlight is required to foster healthy growth.

Watering Needs

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. requires moderate watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering may lead to root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and stunted growth. It is important to water the plant once or twice a week during the growing season.

During dormancy, which usually occurs during the winter season, Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. requires less frequent watering than during the growing season. This low-maintenance approach will help prevent waterlogging the soil and minimize the risk of root rot.

Fertilization

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. benefits greatly from fertilization. Fertilizing the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring or late fall is recommended. This practice will help promote growth, increase yield, and improve the overall health of the plant.

It is important to follow the fertilization instructions that come with the product. Applying too much fertilizer may burn the roots and harm the plant. Too little fertilizer may lead to nutrient deficiency symptoms, such as yellowing of leaves.

Pruning

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. requires little pruning, but it is important to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches at any time of the year. For the best results, pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

It is important to avoid heavy pruning in the first few years after planting Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. This approach will allow the plant to establish itself. Thinning the tree's canopy can be done when the plant reaches maturity to improve airflow and increase sunlight exposure.

To avoid pruning damages, always use clean, sharp pruning tools and avoid tearing or ripping the bark. Proper pruning will promote healthy growth and improve the overall appearance of the plant.

Propagation of Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. (pro sp.)

Propagating Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. involves several methods like seed propagation, grafting, and cuttings.

Seed Propagation

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. can be propagated through seed, which is viable for up to 1 year. The seeds require some form of stratification to break the dormancy. This can be done by storing the seeds in moistened vermiculite or sand in the refrigerator for 60-90 days. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil, followed by watering. Regular watering and protection from direct sunlight can promote growth. The seedlings can be transplanted after a year, once they develop a considerable root system.

Grafting

Grafting is a useful method for propagating Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. The rootstock is usually selected for its hardiness and disease resistance while the scion is chosen for its desirable traits. The graft union should be protected from moisture to prevent rotting, and the grafted plant should be kept in partial shade to reduce water loss. The plant can be transplanted after a year or so.

Cuttings

Propagation using cuttings is a common method for Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. Cuttings from softwood or hardwood can be taken from the parent plant, treated with a rooting hormone, and planted in a well-draining soil mix. In the case of hardwood cuttings, the base of the cutting should be treated with rooting hormone and several leaf nodes should be removed before planting. Careful watering and regular misting can promote growth. The cutting can be transplanted after it develops roots and shows signs of new growth.

Disease Control

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. is relatively disease resistant, but occasionally falls victim to various diseases. Some common diseases of this plant are:

• Fire blight: This bacterial disease attacks the flowers, leaves, and branches of the plant and can cause serious damage. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the disease.
• Cedar apple rust: This fungal disease mostly affects the leaves and fruit of the plant. It causes yellow spots on the leaves and brown galls on the fruit. The disease can be prevented by removing any nearby junipers, which are the alternate host of this disease.
• Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes circular brown or black spots on the leaves. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent the disease from spreading.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Keeping the plant well-ventilated and not overcrowding it can prevent the disease from occurring.

Fungicides can be used to control some of these diseases.

Pest Control

Crataegus ×anomala Sarg. is also susceptible to pest attacks, with some common pests being:

• Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the leaves and twigs. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
• Scale insects: These insects look like small bumps on the branches and leaves of the plant. They can be removed manually or with an insecticidal soap.
• Caterpillars: These pests can eat the leaves and damage the plant. Handpicking them off the plant or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can control their population.

In general, keeping the plant healthy and well-maintained can prevent many pests and diseases from occurring. Regularly pruning dead branches, removing fallen leaves, and not overwatering the plant are all ways to ensure its health and prevent pest and disease attacks.