Crataegus celsa Sarg.
Crataegus celsa, also known as the Tall Hawthorn, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant species is native to eastern North America, specifically in the Appalachian Mountains region, although it is now widely naturalized in various states in the United States and parts of Canada.
Common Names
The Crataegus celsa is commonly known by several names, including the Tall Hawthorn, Scarlet Hawthorn, Apple Hawthorn, and Eastwood's Hawthorn. The common name of this plant species denotes its height and its hawthorn-like appearance.
Uses
The Tall Hawthorn has several uses, particularly in traditional medicine. Its leaves, fruits, and flowers have been used to treat various ailments, including heart problems, digestive issues, high blood pressure, and anxiety. The plant contains flavonoids and tannins, which are believed to possess medicinal properties. Additionally, the fruit of the plant is edible and can be used in making jams, jellies, and other types of preserves.
General Appearance
The Crataegus celsa is a small to medium-sized tree, which can grow up to 33 feet tall. It has a spreading crown and a defined trunk with a diameter of up to 12 inches. The leaves of the plant are simple, alternate, and have serrated edges. They are dark green in color and turn yellow-orange in the fall. The flowers of the plant are white and have a sweet fragrance. They bloom in clusters during late spring. The fruit of the plant is a small, round, red berry, which appears in the fall and persists into the winter. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and has deep furrows.
Overall, Crataegus celsa Sarg. is an important plant species that has both medicinal and culinary uses. Its natural beauty and unique characteristics make it an interesting plant to cultivate and study.Growth Conditions for Crataegus celsa Sarg.
Crataegus celsa Sarg., commonly known as the Scarlet hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree that is native to North America. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and can grow up to 9 meters in height. If you are planning to grow this tree, here are the growth conditions that you must keep in mind:
Light Requirements
The Scarlet hawthorn requires full sunlight for healthy growth and ample fruit production. It can also tolerate partial shade, but this may negatively affect its growth rate and productivity. Therefore, place the tree in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Scarlet hawthorn prefers temperate zones with a moderate climate. It can survive in a wide range of temperature conditions, from -34°C to 38°C. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 10°C-27°C. During its dormancy period, it can tolerate colder temperatures, but prolonged exposure to frost can damage the branches.
Soil Requirements
The Scarlet hawthorn can grow in various soil types, but it prefers moist, deep, and well-drained soils. It cannot tolerate waterlogged or compacted soils, which can lead to root rot or stunted growth. It can also thrive in acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 4.5-7.5. Adding organic matter to the soil can enhance its fertility and improve its water retention capacity.
In conclusion, providing adequate light, temperature, and soil conditions are crucial for the healthy growth of the Scarlet hawthorn. With the right care and maintenance, this tree can offer beautiful foliage, fragrant flowers, and edible fruits.
Cultivation Methods for Crataegus celsa Sarg.
Crataegus celsa Sarg. is a flowering plant that requires well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, so growers can place the plant in a location that provides direct sunlight for at least six hours per day.
Propagation of Crataegus celsa Sarg. can be done through seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be stratified before planting by placing the seeds in cold, moist sand for several weeks to mimic natural winter conditions.
Stem cuttings can be taken in late summer and early fall before the plant goes into dormancy. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-drained rooting medium until roots form, and then transplant them to their permanent containers.
Watering Needs for Crataegus celsa Sarg.
Crataegus celsa Sarg. prefers evenly moist soil, so it is vital to water the plant regularly during the growing season. Irrigate the plant deeply once a week, making sure the top inch of soil stays moist but never waterlogged. Reduce watering during winter when the plant is dormant to avoid root rot and fungal disease.
Fertilization for Crataegus celsa Sarg.
Fertilize Crataegus celsa Sarg. in the spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and optimal flowering. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions, making sure not to over-fertilize the plant, as it can damage the roots and reduce the flowering capacity of the plant.
Pruning for Crataegus celsa Sarg.
Pruning of Crataegus celsa Sarg. should be done in late winter or early spring before the plant begins to grow. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thin out overcrowded branches to promote airflow and light penetration. Shorten the remaining branches by a third to encourage new growth and flowering. Avoid pruning in the summer, as the plant is susceptible to pest infestations and diseases during this time.
Propagation of Crataegus celsa Sarg.
Crataegus celsa Sarg., commonly known as the Cherokee hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to southeastern United States. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage. Propagation of this plant can be done by various methods depending on the gardener's preference and the availability of resources.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is one of the easiest and most common ways to propagate Crataegus celsa. The seeds must be collected from the ripe berries in the fall when they have turned red. The seeds must be cleaned and dried before being sown in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be sown in a container that can be covered with plastic wrap to retain moisture. They should be kept in a warm and bright location until they germinate, which can take up to several months. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly to a garden bed.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation by stem cuttings can be done in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth and should be around six inches long. The leaves should be trimmed from the bottom half of the cutting, and the stem should be dipped in a rooting hormone before being inserted into a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be misted frequently and kept in a warm and bright location until they develop roots, which can take up to several weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly to a garden bed.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a more advanced propagation method commonly used by professional growers to ensure the desired traits of the plant. It involves joining a piece of Crataegus celsa to a rootstock of a related hawthorn species. This method requires skill and precision in matching the cambium layers of the scion and the rootstock. Grafting can result in faster growth and better resistance to certain diseases and pests.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus celsa Sarg.
Crataegus celsa Sarg., commonly known as the mountain hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or a small tree that grows up to 23 feet tall. This ornamental plant is resistant to most diseases and pests. However, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Crataegus celsa Sarg. and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Crataegus celsa Sarg. is leaf spot. This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that infect the leaves, causing them to develop dark spots. To manage this disease, you can apply fungicides that contain copper, sulfur, or chlorothalonil. Another common disease is fire blight, which is caused by a bacterial pathogen that infects the branches, causing them to wilt and die. To manage fire blight, you can prune infected branches and apply copper-based fungicides.
Common Pests
Crataegus celsa Sarg. is susceptible to several pests, including aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Aphids feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to wilt and curl. Scale insects suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become stunted. Spider mites cause the leaves to become discolored, and they may also spin webs on the plant. You can manage these pests by using insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or horticultural oils.
Cultural Practices
Cultural practices can also help prevent diseases and pests from affecting Crataegus celsa Sarg. One of the best ways is to maintain proper sanitation by removing any fallen leaves or dead branches from around the plant. This can prevent fungal pathogens from overwintering and spreading to the plant. Additionally, you should avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that it is planted in well-draining soil, as excessive moisture can create conditions that are conducive to fungal growth.
With proper care and management, you can prevent diseases and pests from damaging Crataegus celsa Sarg. and enjoy its beautiful blooms for years to come.
