Overview of Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa
Crataegus calpodendron (Ehrh.) Medik. var. obesa (Ashe) Palmer is a species of hawthorn that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This deciduous plant is known by several common names, including Pomo hawthorn, Rolling hawthorn, and Dwarf hawthorn.
Origin and Distribution
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa is native to the western coast of North America. It is found in Oregon, California, and British Columbia. The plant is most commonly found in rocky coastal areas with an elevation of less than 1,200 meters.
General Appearance
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa is a small tree or densely-branched shrub that typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 meters. The plant has a rounded crown and a spreading, irregular shape. The bark is gray-brown and develops deep furrows with age. The leaves are lobed, dark green, and have serrated edges. In the spring, the plant produces clusters of white or pinkish fragrant flowers that are followed by bright red or orange fruit.
Uses
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa is primarily used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and fruit. In addition, the fruit can be made into jams and jellies and has been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. The plant is also useful for erosion control on sloping coastal areas and for wildlife habitat.
Cultivation
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa is easy to grow and adaptable to a range of soil types, except for poorly-draining soils. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is drought-tolerant once established. Propagation is by seed or cuttings, and the plant is generally pest and disease-resistant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa is a beautiful and useful plant that is native to the western coast of North America. Its stunning white or pinkish flowers, bright red or orange fruit, and lobed, dark green leaves make it a popular choice for ornamental gardens. Additionally, the plant has been used for medicinal purposes and erosion control.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa plant prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth and development. The plant can tolerate some shade but tends to grow more slowly and produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -38°C to 38°C. However, it grows best at temperatures between 15°C to 30°C. Very high temperatures can cause the plant to wilt and dry out, while very low temperatures can damage the plant's roots and stems.
Soil Requirements
The Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa plant requires well-draining soil for optimal growth. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay, but prefers loam. The plant grows best in soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients. It is also important to avoid waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Crataegus Calpodendron var. obesa
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa, also known as the Bigfruit Hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that thrives in hardiness zones 5 to 9. It grows best in well-drained soils, so make sure the plant has access to adequate drainage.
The plant should be grown in full sun to promote healthy growth and fruiting. It can tolerate partial shade, but its growth may be impeded, and it may produce a smaller yield of fruit.
Watering Needs for Crataegus Calpodendron var. obesa
While the plant is well-suited to drier soils, it still requires watering to ensure its growth and health. It's essential to water the Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa during dry spells, particularly when it's newly planted, to promote root development.
However, excessive watering should be avoided as this plant is somewhat drought tolerant. Watering the plant too much can lead to waterlogging and root rot, which can damage the plant's health.
Fertilization for Crataegus Calpodendron var. obesa
Applying organic fertilizers in spring or fall can help promote healthy growth and improve fruit production in the Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa. It's also important to amend the soil with organic matter, like compost, before planting to ensure adequate nutrients are available to the shrub.
It's important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant. Excessive fertilizer can promote excessive growth and can lead to weak stems and branches, which can put the plant at risk of damage, breakage, or disease.
Pruning Needs for Crataegus Calpodendron var. obesa
Pruning is essential to promote healthy growth and maintain the overall shape of the Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring, when the plant is still dormant.
Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed. Regular pruning can also help keep the plant at the desired size without contributing to undue stress or damage to the plant. It is important to use clean and sharp tools when pruning to avoid tearing the bark of the plant.
Propagation of Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa can be propagated by several methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa can be collected from fruits in the fall and stratified for two to three months. Stratification allows the seeds to undergo a period of cold treatment that mimics the winter conditions necessary for germination. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining medium and kept moist in a cool, bright location. Germination can take several months to a year.
Vegetative Propagation
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa can be propagated by taking stem cuttings or root suckers. Hardwood cuttings taken in late fall or winter can be rooted outdoors in a well-draining medium covered with a layer of mulch. Root suckers, or new shoots that sprout from the base of the plant, can be dug up and replanted in a new location. Both methods may require some rooting hormone and careful attention to watering.
Grafting
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa can also be propagated by grafting onto rootstock of a related species. This method is commonly used in commercial production to ensure consistent traits and disease resistance. The scion, or desired variety of Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa, is grafted onto the rootstock using a whip and tongue graft or another appropriate grafting method. Careful attention to compatibility, timing, and aftercare is needed for graft success.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa
Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa, commonly known as the dwarf hawthorn, is prone to certain diseases and pests that can affect its overall health and productivity. Proper disease and pest management are essential to protect the plant, maintain its aesthetic appeal, and ensure its maximum yield potential.
Common Diseases
Some common diseases that affect Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa include:
- Fire Blight: This bacterial disease causes the leaves, flowers, and branches to wilt and turn black. In severe cases, the entire plant can die. To control fire blight, prune affected branches, and apply a copper-based fungicide.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brownish-black spots on the leaves and flowers, leading to defoliation and reduced blooming. To control anthracnose, remove infected leaves and flowers, and apply a fungicide containing copper or chlorothalonil.
- Rust: This fungal disease manifests as orange or yellowish spots on the leaves and can cause defoliation and reduced vigor. To control rust, remove infected leaves, and apply a fungicide containing myclobutanil or tebuconazole.
Common Pests
Some common pests that affect Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa include:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. Aphids also excrete honeydew, attracting ants and promoting fungal growth. To control aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mites: These tiny pests cause yellowish or brownish spots on the leaves and can reduce plant growth and yield. To control mites, spray the plant with a miticide containing spiromesifen or abamectin.
- Caterpillars: These larvae of moths or butterflies can defoliate the plant and cause significant damage. To control caterpillars, handpick them from the plant, or spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
Regular monitoring of the plant's health and timely intervention can prevent the spread of diseases and pests and protect Crataegus calpodendron var. obesa from potential damage. Additionally, ensuring proper soil drainage, adequate sunlight, and nutrition can enhance the plant's resistance to diseases and pests and promote robust growth.
