Overview
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. hispidula (Sarg.) Palmer, also known as the Newfoundland hawthorn, is a species of hawthorn that is native to eastern North America. It is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family.Common Names
The Newfoundland hawthorn is commonly known by other names, such as hispid hawthorn, hairy hawthorn, and rough hawthorn. These names are derived from the plant's hair-like thorns and hairy twig appearance.Appearance
The Newfoundland hawthorn is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 10 meters in height. It has an irregular crown with stiff horizontal branches and a scaly, thick, dark gray bark. The leaves of the plant are simple, alternate, and oval to elliptic in shape. They are finely toothed, hairy, and have a dark green color. The flowers of the plant are small, white, and appear in clusters of 5-10. The flowers bloom in mid-spring and give way to small, round, red to black fruits in late summer that are edible and can be used to make jams and jellies.Uses
The Newfoundland hawthorn has several uses, such as in ornamental gardening and as a wildlife food source. Its fruit is a rich source of nutrients for birds and other small animals. The plant's wood is hard and dense, making it suitable for tool handles, fence posts, and firewood. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used for the treatment of several ailments, including heart conditions, high blood pressure, and digestive problems. The plant has also been used as a natural remedy for anxiety and nervousness. However, before using the plant for medicinal purposes, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.In conclusion, the Newfoundland hawthorn is a beautiful plant with several uses and medicinal properties. Its unique appearance, edible fruit, and hardy nature make it a wonderful addition to any garden or landscape.
Light Requirements
The plant Crataegus calpodendron var. hispidula typically grows best in full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow properly. In shaded areas, the plant may not produce as many flowers or fruit, but it can still survive.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Crataegus calpodendron var. hispidula can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4-8 with temperatures between -20°F to 100°F (-28°C to 38°C). In colder temperatures, the plant becomes dormant, shedding its leaves in winter. In hotter temperatures, it is important to provide consistent moisture to prevent drought stress.
Soil Requirements
The plant Crataegus calpodendron var. hispidula prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.2). It can tolerate a variety of soil textures, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, it does not grow well in heavy, compacted soils that retain excess water. The plant requires consistent moisture, but it cannot withstand waterlogged soils. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve drainage and increase fertility, promoting healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. hispidula (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as hawthorn, is a deciduous tree that's relatively easy to grow and maintain. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8. When planting, select an appropriate site that has well-draining soil and receives full sunlight. The sapling should be planted during the dormant season, either in the fall or early spring. Dig a hole that's two times the width and depth of the root ball. After planting, water the sapling thoroughly, and mulch the area around the sapling to support moisture retention and weed suppression.Watering Needs
Hawthorns are relatively drought-resistant and do not require frequent watering. However, you should water your young trees once a week for the first few months after planting, depending on weather conditions. During periods of drought, a deep watering once every two weeks should suffice. It's essential to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other soil-borne diseases.Fertilization
Hawthorn trees require little fertilizer, but you can give them a boost during the growing season by adding a slow-release, all-purpose fertilizer to the soil around the tree's base. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions, and avoid overfertilizing, as this can cause rapid growth and weaken the tree.Pruning
Hawthorn trees require minimal pruning, but you can help maintain their health and shape by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged wood in the dormant season to prevent infection. If you wish to control the tree's size or shape, prune it lightly during the dormant season, taking care not to remove more than a third of the tree's branches. Regular pruning will help to improve the tree's overall health and appearance.Propagation of Crataegus Calpodendron var. Hispidula
Crataegus Calpodendron var. Hispidula can be propagated through several methods including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and transplanting wild seedlings.
Seed Propagation
When propagating Crataegus Calpodendron var. Hispidula from seeds, it is essential to use fresh seeds collected from ripened fruit during autumn. The seeds require stratification during winter before sowing in the spring to simulate natural dormancy. Germination of the seeds usually occurs in the spring or early summer.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation through cuttings is a common method for propagating Crataegus Calpodendron var. Hispidula. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the parent plant during the growing season, ideally mid to late summer, can be rooted. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in an appropriate soil mixture that should be well-draining for successful growth.
Transplanting Wild Seedlings
If the wild seedlings of Crataegus Calpodendron var. Hispidula are available, transplanting can be a useful method. Care should be taken when transplanting wild seedlings as they should be dug out with roots intact and transplanted either directly to their permanent location or the growing site where they can be nurtured.
Disease Management
Crataegus calpodendron var. hispidula is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, it is still susceptible to some diseases that can cause damage to the plant and even death in severe cases.
One of the most common diseases that afflict Crataegus calpodendron var. hispidula is fire blight, which is caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora. This disease spreads quickly and can kill the plant within a short period. To manage fire blight, it is essential to prune the infected parts of the plant and destroy them to prevent the spread of the bacteria. Applying bactericides can also help to control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Crataegus calpodendron var. hispidula is cedar-apple rust, which is caused by the fungus Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae. Cedar-apple rust causes yellow spots on the leaves, and in severe cases, the leaves may fall off. To manage cedar-apple rust, it is essential to remove infected leaves and to apply fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Crataegus calpodendron var. hispidula is also susceptible to pest infestations that can cause damage to the plant. Some common pests that can affect Crataegus calpodendron var. hispidula include:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects suck the sap from the plant, weakening it. To control aphids, spray the plant with water and insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant's sap, causing discoloration and weakening. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water and insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These pests form hard, shell-like coverings that protect them from predators and insecticides. To control scale insects, scrape them off the plant with a soft brush and then apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
It is important to inspect plants regularly for pest infestations to catch them early. Insecticides should only be used as a last resort, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
