Origin and Common Names
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. globosa (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as roundfruit hawthorn or orb-fruited hawthorn, is a species of hawthorn native to North America. It can be found in the southeastern United States, from Virginia to Florida, and west to Louisiana and Texas.Appearance
This deciduous shrub or small tree can reach heights up to 10 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 30 cm. The leaves are oval-shaped and have lobed margins, with a glossy dark green upper surface and a lighter green underside. The flowers are white and bloom in clusters in the spring, followed by the development of the fruit, which is a round, red to orange berry that matures in the fall.Uses
The fruit of Crataegus calpodendron var. globosa is edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and sauces. It is also a popular food source for wildlife, including birds and small mammals. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes, due to its attractive foliage and colorful fruit. In addition, the leaves, flowers, and fruit have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal issues.Light Requirements
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. globosa (Sarg.) Palmer requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In areas with hot summers, partial shade may be necessary to prevent leaf burn.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. globosa (Sarg.) Palmer is adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can tolerate both extreme heat and cold. However, it prefers moderate temperatures and grows best in regions with average temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
This plant can grow in various soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate soils with low fertility, but it will grow more vigorously in soils with adequate organic matter and nutrients. Regular watering is necessary for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. globosa (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as the globed hawthorn, is a small shrub or tree that reaches a height of 10-15 feet. It is best grown in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is drought tolerant once it has established roots. During the germination stage, the seeds should be treated with cold stratification for three months and then sown in spring after the last frost.
Watering Needs
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. globosa (Sarg.) Palmer requires moderate watering during its first year of growth. The plant should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Once the plant has established roots, it is drought-tolerant and requires little watering except in extreme conditions. If there is a prolonged dry season, the plant should be watered every two weeks.
Fertilization
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. globosa (Sarg.) Palmer does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer should be added to the soil at the time of planting. In subsequent years, a balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring before the plant starts to grow. A layer of compost around the plant should be added in early fall to help improve soil quality.
Pruning
Pruning is best done when the plant is in its dormant phase in late winter or early spring. The plant should be pruned to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood. Crossing branches should also be removed to improve the plant's structure and promote air circulation. The plant's height and width can also be managed through pruning. The cut should be made at a 45-degree angle and a sealant should be applied to prevent pests and diseases from entering. Always sterilize your pruning tools before use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Crataegus Calpodendron var. Globosa
Crataegus Calpodendron var. Globosa, commonly known as the Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree that is native to North America. It is a highly ornamental tree that produces beautiful white flowers in the spring and small red fruits in autumn. There are several methods to propagate Crataegus Calpodendron var. Globosa, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a popular method of propagating Crataegus Calpodendron var. Globosa. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruits in the autumn and should be sown immediately. The seeds require pre-treatment before sowing. To do this, they should be soaked in water for 24 hours and then exposed to cold stratification for 60-90 days. After stratification, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and bright location. The seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is another method of propagating Crataegus Calpodendron var. Globosa. This method involves taking cuttings from a mature tree and rooting them in a suitable rooting hormone and growing medium. The cuttings should be taken in late summer or early autumn, and the leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting. The cuttings should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid location and should be watered regularly. The cuttings will develop roots in 6-8 weeks.
Grafting
Grafting is a popular method for propagating cultivars of Crataegus Calpodendron var. Globosa. This method involves joining a scion, which is a piece of the desired cultivar, to a rootstock of a related species. The two plant parts are held together using grafting tape or wax and allowed to grow together. This method ensures that the new plant retains the desirable traits of the original cultivar. Grafting is usually carried out in winter or early spring when the sap is not flowing.
Disease Management
The Crataegus calpodendron var. globosa is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, it can sometimes be affected by fungal diseases, including:
- Cedar Apple Rust: This is a fungal disease common in areas where the plant is grown. It causes yellow spots on the leaves that can spread upward. To manage the disease, ensure proper sanitation and remove all infected leaves and branches. Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Fire Blight: This is a bacterial disease that can cause dieback. It is more common in hot and humid conditions. To prevent the disease, ensure proper pruning and avoid over-fertilizing the plant. Infected parts must be pruned and disposed of immediately.
Pest Management
The common pests that can attack the Crataegus calpodendron var. globosa include:
- Aphids: Aphids can be a nuisance to the plant. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and can cause stunted growth. To manage the pests, spray the plant with soap and water or use insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and buds. Manual removal of the caterpillars is recommended, and the use of Bacillus thuringiensis is an effective biological control method.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause severe damage to the plant by sucking the sap from its leaves. Regular spraying with water can help keep the pests at bay, but insecticidal soap and neem oil are also effective in managing the pests.
Regular monitoring of the Crataegus calpodendron var. globosa is essential to detect any pests and diseases promptly. Practicing good hygiene, such as removing and destroying any infected parts and ensuring proper sanitation, is also crucial in preventing the spread of diseases. Employing appropriate pest and disease control measures at the onset of an infestation can help to minimize the damage to the plant.
