Origin
Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. is a hawthorn species that is native to North America, specifically found in the southeastern region of the United States. It is commonly found in parts of Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
Common Names
This species of hawthorn is commonly known as the Bartram's hawthorn, rough hawthorn, or scabrous hawthorn due to the rough texture of its leaves and branches.
Uses
Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, specifically for heart-related issues such as angina, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat. The plant contains compounds such as flavonoids and proanthocyanidins that are believed to have cardiovascular benefits. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this plant for medical purposes.
General Appearance
Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. typically grows as a small tree or large shrub, reaching a height of 3-10 meters. The bark is gray-brown and deeply ridged. The leaves are oval-shaped, about 5-9 centimeters long, with a rough texture on the upper surface and hairy on the underside. The flowers are white or pink, with a diameter of about 1 centimeter and bloom in late spring. The fruits are small, red, and about 1-2 centimeters in diameter, lasting through fall until early winter.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. plant typically thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is recommended to plant it in areas where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can withstand temperatures ranging from -23° C to 38° C but grows best in areas where temperatures range from 15° C to 25° C. Frost and long periods of cold exposure can hinder the growth and development of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. plant can grow in a range of soil types but thrives best in moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should also be fertile and rich in organic matter to provide optimum growth conditions.
Cultivation
Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. is well-suited for cultivation in USDA zones 5-9. It prefers a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and a location with full sun to partial shade. Planting in the fall is recommended, as this allows the roots to become established before the summer heat.
Watering
Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. requires moderate watering and prefers a soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the first growing season, it is important to keep the soil evenly moist and to water deeply when necessary. After the plant is established, it can tolerate some drought but will do best if given water during dry spells.
Fertilization
Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. does not require heavy fertilization, but it will benefit from a yearly application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive growth, making the plant more vulnerable to diseases and pests.
Pruning
Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. requires minimal pruning, but it is important to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant as desired. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before the new growth begins. Avoid pruning in the summer, as this can lead to excessive bleeding of sap.
Propagation of Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest.
Propagation of Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. can be done by seeds or by cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. can be planted in the fall. They require a period of stratification, during which they must be kept cool and moist to stimulate germination. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-drained soil mix that is kept moist but not too wet. The seedlings will usually emerge in the spring.
Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings of Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. can be taken in the summer from semi-hardwood growth. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be about 10-15 cm long. The bottom third of the cutting should be stripped of leaves, and a rooting hormone can be applied to the cut end. The cutting can then be planted in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist. Roots should begin to develop in a few weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted after a few months.
Disease Management
Crataegus brainerdii Sarg. var. scabrida (Sarg.) Egglest. is susceptible to several diseases that can cause severe damage to the plant. One of the most common problems is fire blight, which can cause blackened leaves and burnt-looking stems. To manage this disease, it is essential to prune out affected branches before the disease can spread further. Applying copper fungicides during the dormant season can also help to prevent fire blight.
Cedar-quince rust is another disease that can attack Crataegus brainerdii. The disease starts as yellow spots on the leaves and eventually leads to defoliation. The best way to manage this disease is through the use of resistant varieties. If this option is not available, applying fungicides can help to control the disease.
Anthracnose is also a problem that can affect Crataegus brainerdii. Anthracnose causes leaf spots, twig blight, and canker. The disease spreads quickly during wet weather conditions. It is essential to prune out affected branches and maintain good air circulation around the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Crataegus brainerdii and cause severe damage to the plant. One of the most common insects that attack the plant is the aphid. Aphids can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Natural predators, such as lady beetles and lacewings, can help to control aphids. It is also possible to control aphids by applying insecticidal soap or oil.
Spider mites are another pest that can affect Crataegus brainerdii. They can cause yellow stippling on the leaves, and severe infestations can lead to defoliation. The best way to manage spider mites is through the use of predatory mites. Applying insecticidal soap or oil can also help to control spider mites.
Japanese beetles are another pest that can affect Crataegus brainerdii. They can cause severe damage to the plant by eating the leaves, flowers, and fruit. To manage Japanese beetles, it is essential to handpick them and drop them in soapy water. Applying insecticides can also help to control the pests.
