Origin
Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. is a plant species that belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae) and is native to the United States of America.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Bearberry hawthorn due to its red berries that resemble bearberries. It is also called the mainden's-blush hawthorn, because of the beautiful pale pink flowers that bloom in the spring.
Appearance
The Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. plant has a rounded shape with gray-brown bark. It grows up to 10-15 feet (3-4.5m) tall and 5-8 feet (1.5-2.5m) wide. The leaves are lobed and narrow, with a beautiful green color that turns scarlet red in the fall. The flowers are pale pink and arranged in clusters of 5 to 7. The fruits are bright red and resemble small apples, containing one or two seeds.
Uses
Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Its leaves, berries, and flowers have been used to treat many ailments, including cardiovascular diseases, digestive problems, and anxiety. The plant is also used as a natural food coloring due to its red color. Additionally, it is an ornamental plant that can be planted in gardens to add a beautiful touch of color.
Light Requirements
Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. plants prefer full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. They require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure for healthy growth. Insufficient sunlight exposure can weaken the plant and make it susceptible to diseases and pests.
Temperature Requirements
These plants can tolerate cold temperatures and grow best in cool environments. The ideal temperature range for Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. is between 5°C to 20°C. Extreme temperatures can damage the plant and affect its growth and health.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. plants prefer well-drained and fertile soil. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH value of 6.0-7.0. They require regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged as it can cause root rot. The addition of organic matter can improve soil quality and enhance plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus choriophylla Sarg., also known as Chinese hawthorn, is a hardy plant that can grow in most soils. It prefers soil that is moderately fertile and well-draining. The plant should be grown in a location where it can receive full sun to partial shade.
To cultivate the plant, begin by preparing the soil. You can do this by removing any weeds or rocks and adding organic matter such as compost or manure. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the size of the plant's rootball. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure the plant is at the same depth as it was in its pot. Water the plant thoroughly after planting.
Watering Needs
Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. requires consistent moisture during its growing season, but should not be overwatered. It is important to water the plant deeply, allowing the water to soak into the soil. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly before watering again. In general, the plant should be watered every 7 to 10 days, depending on weather conditions.
During the winter, the plant does not require as much water. Reduce watering to once a month, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is important not to let the plant completely dry out.
Fertilization
Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. benefits from fertilization once or twice a year. A well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the spring and fall. The amount to apply should be based on the manufacturer's recommendations.
Another option for fertilization is to add a layer of compost or manure around the base of the plant. This can be done in the spring and fall as well, and will help to improve the soil structure and fertility.
Pruning
Pruning Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. is not required, but it can help to shape the plant and promote healthy growth. The best time to prune is in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Begin by removing any dead or damaged branches. Next, remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Finally, shape the plant by removing any overgrown or unwanted branches. It is important not to remove more than one-third of the plant's total growth.
Regular pruning will help to prevent the plant from becoming too dense and to improve air circulation, which can help to reduce the risk of disease.
Propagation of Crataegus choriophylla Sarg.
Propagation of Crataegus choriophylla Sarg., commonly known as the green hawthorn or the red hawthorn, can be done through several methods including seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be collected from mature fruit in the fall and sown in the spring. The seeds should be stratified for at least three months before planting to break dormancy. Stratification can be accomplished by storing the seeds in a moist, cool environment like a refrigerator or by sowing them directly in a container outside during the winter months.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation involves taking cuttings from a parent plant and rooting them in a suitable medium. Semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken in the summer and propagated using rooting hormones and proper soil moisture. The cuttings should be kept in partial shade until they are well-established.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting propagation is a more advanced method of propagation and involves joining the stem of Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. onto a rootstock of a related species. The rootstock should be chosen for its vigorous growth and disease resistance. Grafting is typically done in the spring, and the resulting plant should be well-cared for and monitored for stress and disease.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus choriophylla Sarg.
Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. is a species of hawthorn tree that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management techniques can help prevent damage and maintain the health and vitality of the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. is fire blight. This bacterial disease causes leaves and flowers to turn black, and branches to wilt and die. The bacteria spread rapidly through the plant's vascular system and can result in the death of the entire tree.
Fungal diseases such as rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot can also affect the hawthorn tree. Rust causes orange-brown spots on leaves, powdery mildew results in a white powdery coating on leaves, while leaf spot causes small brown lesions on leaves.
Pest Management
Aphids are a common pest that feeds on Crataegus choriophylla Sarg. leaves and shoots. These small insects secrete a sticky substance known as honeydew that can attract ants. Spider mites are another pest that can cause damage to the plant by sucking sap from leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop prematurely.
To manage aphids and spider mites, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help control these pests.
Disease Management
To manage fire blight, infected branches must be pruned and destroyed immediately. Disinfecting pruning tools after each cut can help prevent further spread of the bacteria. Fungal diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used to control these diseases.
Overall, proper maintenance practices such as regular pruning, sanitation, and watering can go a long way in preventing disease and pest issues in Crataegus choriophylla Sarg.
