Overview
Crataegus atrorubens Ashe, also known as the black hawthorn or southern hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to the southeastern United States.
Appearance
The black hawthorn has a dense and rounded form, growing 10 to 20 feet tall with a spread of 10 to 15 feet. The tree has a multi-stemmed growth habit and develops a broad crown with age. The trunk and branches of the tree have a gray-brown color, while the twigs have a reddish-brown hue. The leaves are glossy and oval-shaped, measuring 2 to 3 inches in length and turning reddish or yellowish-orange during the fall. Clusters of white flowers, each measuring 1/4 inch in diameter, appear in the spring. They are followed by red or black berries that measure 1/3 inch in diameter and ripen in September or October.
Uses
The black hawthorn is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. It is also used in naturalized areas or as a wildlife habitat and is particularly beneficial to birds. The berries of the plant are edible and are used in making jams, jellies, and pies. The bark, roots, and berries of the tree have been used for medicinal purposes in traditional Native American medicine. The active compounds in the plant are believed to be helpful in treating digestive and respiratory conditions among other ailments.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus atrorubens Ashe, commonly known as the black hawthorn, thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth. However, it can also tolerate shade, especially in the hot summer months, but it may result in reduced blooming and fruiting.
Temperature Requirements
The black hawthorn is native to North America and can grow in a variety of temperature conditions. However, it prefers a continental climate with cool winters and mild summers. The ideal temperature range for black hawthorn growth is between 60-90°F. During the winter months, the plant can withstand freezing temperatures, but it can also tolerate high heat and humidity.
Soil Requirements
Black hawthorn grows well in a wide range of soil types, including loam, clay, and sandy soil. However, it prefers well-drained soils. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil, with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Adding organic matter such as compost or leaf mold helps maintain soil moisture and nutrients. It is important to note that the black hawthorn has a deep root system that can reach up to 12 feet below the soil surface, so it requires ample space to grow downwards.
Cultivation
Crataegus atrorubens Ashe, commonly known as the Southern Red Hawthorn, is a small, deciduous tree that is native to the southeastern United States. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, and it prefers to grow in full sun or partial shade. The plant grows best in well-draining, moist soil that is slightly acidic.
The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. If propagating from seeds, it's best to sow them in the fall or early spring. Plant the seedlings in a pot or container and keep them in a shaded area until they are established. Once they are established, transplant them to their permanent location.
Watering
The Southern Red Hawthorn requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Be sure to water the tree at the base to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to diseases.
Fertilization
The Southern Red Hawthorn typically doesn't require frequent fertilization. However, a light application of a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can encourage healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing after mid-summer, as this can promote tender growth that is susceptible to winter damage.
Pruning
Pruning the Southern Red Hawthorn can help to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the tree during dormancy (late fall to early spring) before new growth begins. Remove any broken, diseased or dead branches, and cut back any growth that is crossing or rubbing against another branch. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the tree.
Propagation of Crataegus Atrorubens Ashe
Crataegus atrorubens Ashe, commonly known as black hawthorn, is a deciduous tree that can grow up to a height of 25 feet. It is a native plant of North America and can be found in many regions of the United States. Propagation of Crataegus atrorubens Ashe can be done using several methods, including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is one of the most common methods used to propagate Crataegus atrorubens Ashe. It involves collecting seeds from a mature tree during the autumn season. The collected seeds must then be cleaned and stored in a cool and dry place until the following spring season. In the spring, the seeds can be sown in a seed tray or directly in the ground. The seedlings will usually start to emerge in two to three weeks and can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have grown to a height of four to six inches.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation involves taking cuttings from a mature Crataegus atrorubens Ashe tree and growing them into new trees. This method is more challenging than seed propagation, but it can produce faster results. The best time for taking cuttings is during the winter season when the tree is dormant. The cuttings should be taken from the previous year's growth and should be around six to eight inches in length. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained potting mix. They should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they have developed roots and can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Grafting
Grafting is a more complicated method used to propagate Crataegus atrorubens Ashe. It involves joining a part of a mature tree, known as the scion, to the rootstock of a different tree. Grafting is usually done during the winter season when the tree is dormant. The scion and the rootstock are joined using a special tape or grafting compound. The grafted tree must then be kept in a warm and humid environment until it has developed roots and can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Propagation of Crataegus atrorubens Ashe can be done using one of these three methods. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on the grower's preference and resources. Regardless of the method chosen, growing a Crataegus atrorubens Ashe tree provides many benefits, such as attracting wildlife and adding beauty to any landscape.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus Atrorubens Ashe
Crataegus atrorubens Ashe, also known as black hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree or shrub that is native to the eastern part of North America. This plant is generally hardy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by a few common problems that can be controlled with proper management techniques.
Common Diseases
Black hawthorn is susceptible to a few common diseases, such as:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, dark spots on the leaves of the plant, which can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the infected parts of the plant and to improve air circulation by spacing the plants properly.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that appears as yellow or orange spots on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage rust, it is recommended to remove the infected leaves and to apply a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Fire Blight
Fire blight is a bacterial disease that affects the branches, causing them to wilt and turn black. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the infected branches and to destroy them completely. It is also important to disinfect pruning tools between cuts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Black hawthorn can also be affected by a few common pests, such as:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, it is recommended to wash the plant with water or to apply insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Mites
Mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves, causing them to become stippled or discolored. To manage mites, it is recommended to apply a miticide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation. To manage caterpillars, it is recommended to handpick them and destroy them or to apply a biological control, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, black hawthorn can remain healthy and thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
