Overview of Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. is a species of hawthorn that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The plant is native to North America and grows mainly in the Appalachian Mountains of the United States. It commonly blooms in May and June, producing clusters of small white flowers, and in the fall, it bears small red fruits that resemble miniature apples.
Common Names
The common names of Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. include Beckwith’s hawthorn, applehaw, and Beckwith Mountain thorn.
Uses of Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
The plant has several uses in traditional medicine, such as treating heart diseases, digestive problems, and high blood pressure. It contains flavonoids, which have potent antioxidant properties and can also help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
Aside from its medicinal value, Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. also serves as an ornamental plant, thanks to its striking appearance. It can be grown in gardens or parks and used as a hedge or screen plant. Several cultivars of the plant have been developed by horticulturalists over the years to enhance its ornamental value.
General Appearance of Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. is a small, deciduous tree or shrub that can grow up to 15 feet tall. The plant has a dense, rounded crown and spiny branches. The leaves are dark green and shiny, and the flowers are white, small, and fragrant. The fruits are bright red and around 1/2 inch in diameter.
Overall, Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. is a useful plant with medicinal and ornamental values. Its striking appearance makes it a popular addition to gardens, parks, and landscapes.
Light Requirements
Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. is a sun-loving plant that requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. It will also tolerate partial shade, but the flowering may be less profuse under those conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can thrive across a wide range of temperatures but prefers a moderate climate. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, where average temperatures range between 10°C and 30°C. However, it can survive temperatures as low as -13°C and as high as 38°C.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. prefers a well-drained soil with moderate moisture content. The pH of the soil should range between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant thrives in a loamy soil that is rich in organic matter.
It is essential to avoid soil that is too dense or too light, as it can impact root development and overall growth. Loamy soils are ideal, as they provide the right mix of sand, silt, and clay. Adding compost to the soil before planting can also provide a nutrient-rich environment that supports plant growth.
Cultivation methods for Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
Crataegus beckwithiae, commonly known as the Beckwith's Hawthorn, is a small flowering tree or shrub that is endemic to the United States. Here are some guidelines to follow for its cultivation:
- It's best to plant the tree in the fall or early spring while the plant is still dormant. If you are planting in the spring, wait until after the last frost has passed.
- Crataegus beckwithiae prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic. Avoid planting in alkaline soil.
- The tree prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate some shade. Ensure that the location you choose has good airflow.
- Be sure to space the trees at least 15 feet apart, as they require plenty of room to grow.
- Supplement the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve the nutrient content and to aid in water retention.
Watering needs of Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
Watering needs for Crataegus beckwithiae vary depending on the season and the environmental conditions:
- In general, Beckwith's Hawthorn prefers moist soil but is also drought-resistant once established.
- During the first year of growth, water the tree regularly, about once a week, and make sure the soil is consistently moist but not water-logged.
- Once established, the tree may only need to be watered every two weeks in times of dry weather.
- Be sure to water slowly and deeply so that the soil is soaked thoroughly but is not flooded.
Fertilizing Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
While Crataegus beckwithiae does not require frequent fertilization, supplementing with fertilizer can encourage optimal growth:
- Feed the tree in the spring by applying a slow-release fertilizer to the soil around the roots. Be sure to follow package instructions.
- Do not fertilize during the summer, as this can interfere with the tree's natural growth cycle.
- Avoid using excessive amounts of fertilizer, as this can lead to overgrowth and a weakened tree structure.
Pruning Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
Pruning Crataegus beckwithiae is essential to maintaining the health and shape of the tree:
- Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
- Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches with sharp and sterilized gardening shears or pruning tools.
- To control the size and shape of the tree, prune back long or overgrown branches to a lateral branch or bud.
- When pruning, aim to maintain a natural tree shape, and avoid cutting back more than one-third of the tree's total branches in a single year.
Propagation of Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
The Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg., commonly known as Beckwith's Hawthorn, propagates through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Beckwith's Hawthorn is through seeds. The seeds need to go through stratification, a process of exposing them to moisture, to break their dormancy. Mixed with peat moss or sand, seeds need to undergo cold stratification for about three months. After which, they can be sown in pots or trays filled with potting mix with the soil kept moist. Germination will start within one to two weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. can also propagate through hardwood cuttings. Hardwood cutting is the use of mature wood, which is harvested in late autumn or winter. This process is done by taking cuttings from a dormant plant and treating it with rooting hormone, then inserted in a soilless rooting medium. The cuttings should have one or two nodes and be at least six inches long. After that, they are placed in a greenhouse or sheltered area with high humidity and protecting it from direct sunlight. Roots will form in about three months, and new growth will appear in spring.
Air Layering Propagation
Another method of propagating Beckwith's Hawthorn is through air layering. This method involves wounding and removing a segment of bark. This process will promote the growth of aerial roots, which will then be rooted in the ground. A rooting hormone may be used to induce root formation. When well-established roots are visible, the air-layered branch can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to its permanent location.
Propagation of Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. requires knowledge and skill in horticulture. But with the right technique and equipment, propagation can be successful and convenient. Remember that each method requires different requirements and patience, but it is always satisfying to see the new plant grow and flourish.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg.
Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg., also known as Beckwith's hawthorn, is a small tree in the family Rosaceae. As with many plants, this species is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage these issues and keep your Beckwith's hawthorn healthy and beautiful.
Common Diseases
One common disease that affects hawthorns is fire blight. This bacterial disease causes wilting and blackening of foliage and stems, and it can quickly spread throughout a tree if left untreated. To manage fire blight on your Beckwith's hawthorn, prune infected branches at least 12 inches below the affected area, disinfecting your pruning tools between cuts to avoid spreading the bacteria.
Cedar apple rust is another disease that can impact hawthorns. This fungal disease produces orange spots on foliage, with a corresponding rust-colored growth on nearby junipers and cedars. Removing any nearby junipers or cedars can help prevent the spread of the disease to your Beckwith's hawthorn. Additionally, applying a fungicide at the first sign of the disease can help manage its impact.
Common Pests
There are several pests that can damage hawthorns, including spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on hawthorn foliage. Heavy infestations of spider mites can cause defoliation and even death of young trees. To manage spider mites on your Beckwith's hawthorn, regularly spray it with a strong stream of water, which can dislodge the pests. You can also use insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil spray to control these pests.
Scale insects are another common pest that can affect hawthorns. These small, sap-feeding insects can cause yellowing and distortion of foliage, as well as stunted growth. To manage scale insects on your Beckwith's hawthorn, use a horticultural oil spray or insecticidal soap. You can also prune heavily infested branches to remove the pests.
Aphids are yet another pest to watch out for on hawthorns. These small insects feed on plant sap and can cause foliage to curl and yellow. To manage aphids on your Beckwith's hawthorn, try spraying it with a strong stream of water, using insecticidal soap, or releasing ladybugs or other predators that feed on aphids.
By being aware of these common diseases and pests, and taking steps to manage them, you can keep your Crataegus beckwithiae Sarg. healthy and growing strong for years to come.
