Overview of Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer is a plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as the Bicknell's hawthorn or the goldenberry hawthorn. This plant is native to North America and grows throughout the United States and Canada. The Bicknell's hawthorn is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 6 meters in height.
Appearance of Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer
The Bicknell's hawthorn has a rounded crown and is densely branched. The leaves of this plant are simple, lobed, and have a glossy green surface. The flowers of the Bicknell's hawthorn are white and appear in clusters. They bloom in late spring or early summer. The fruit of the Bicknell's hawthorn is a golden-yellow berry-like pome. Each fruit is about 8-10 mm in diameter.
Uses of Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer
The Bicknell's hawthorn has several uses in traditional medicine. The fruit and leaves of the plant are known to have medicinal properties that help with heart-related problems, such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and angina. The plant is also used to relieve anxiety and stress. The fruit of the Bicknell's hawthorn can be eaten raw or cooked and used in jams, jellies, and pies.
The Bicknell's hawthorn is also planted as an ornamental tree and used in landscaping. It is an excellent choice for hedges, borders, and screens. The Bicknell's hawthorn is drought-tolerant and can grow in a wide range of soil types. It is also resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance plant to grow.
Overall, the Bicknell's hawthorn is a versatile plant that has many uses. It is a beautiful ornamental tree, has medicinal properties, and produces delicious fruit. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in different growing conditions.
Light Requirements
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer commonly known as Bicknell's hawthorn, prefers partial to full sunlight exposure for optimum growth. It can also be grown in shadier areas but may result in poor flowering and fruiting.
Temperature Requirements
Bicknell's hawthorn is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in USDA zones 4 to 9, with temperatures ranging from -30°F or -34.4°C to 120°F or 48.9°C. It prefers a temperate climate.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Bicknell's hawthorn are well-draining soils with medium to high fertility. It prefers a neutral to slightly acidic soil pH (6.0-7.5). The ideal soil type for its growth is a sandy loam soil that is rich in organic matter. Bicknell's hawthorn is also adapted to grow in soils that are low in organic matter, such as loamy sand and sandy soils. It is drought-tolerant, and once established, it is relatively low maintenance.
Cultivation
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer, commonly known as Bicknell's hawthorn, is a small flowering tree or shrub that is native to North America. It is relatively easy to cultivate and requires minimal maintenance.
The plant prefers full sun exposure and well-draining soil. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but it thrives in loamy soil. It is also tolerant of drought and can withstand cold temperatures.
Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be collected in the fall and sown immediately. Cuttings can be taken in the summer and rooted in a mixture of sand and peat moss.
Watering Needs
During the first year of growth, Bicknell's hawthorn should be watered regularly to establish a strong root system. Once it is established, it can handle occasional periods of drought. However, it is essential to water the plant deeply during prolonged dry spells.
Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to check the soil moisture level regularly and water the plant only when the top inch of the soil is dry.
Fertilization
Bicknell's hawthorn does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once a year, in the early spring, with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall or winter as it can encourage new growth that is susceptible to cold damage.
The amount of fertilizer needed can vary depending on the soil type and the plant's growth. It is recommended to apply fertilizer based on the package instructions or consult a gardening expert for guidance.
Pruning
Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. It is essential to remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood, as it can attract pests and diseases.
For shaping purposes, it is recommended to remove the unwanted branches while the plant is still young. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant at once as it can weaken the plant and slow down its growth.
Bicknell's hawthorn is relatively low-maintenance and does not require extensive pruning. However, annual pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and improve its overall health.
Propagation of Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer is commonly known as Bicknell's hawthorn. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to the northeastern parts of the United States. Bicknell's hawthorn is an excellent plant for landscaping and is also used for erosion control, wildlife habitat, and as an ornamental tree. The plant can be propagated through several methods, as outlined below.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Bicknell's hawthorn is through seed propagation. Mature fruits can be harvested from the plant during autumn, and the seeds can be extracted and sown immediately or stored until the following spring. The seeds need to be stratified for three months at 34-41°F to break dormancy. Once stratified, the seeds can be sown in flats filled with seed-starting mix. Keep the flats moist and warm (between 68-77°F) until the seedlings emerge in three to five weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual containers or planted directly into the ground.
Cuttings Propagation
Bicknell's hawthorn can also be propagated through hardwood cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in late autumn before the plant goes dormant. Select healthy, mature wood and make cuts that are 8-10 inches long, with the cut made at a 45-degree angle. Remove any leaves or buds from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cutting into rooting hormone to encourage root growth and then insert the cutting into a pot of well-draining soil or directly into the ground. Keep the soil moist and protect the cutting from frost. Roots should start to develop in about six months, and the cutting can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the ground.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a method that is commonly used to propagate woody plants like Bicknell's hawthorn. It involves joining a scion (a piece of twig or bud) from the desired plant onto a rootstock of a related plant. Grafting is usually done in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The scion should be taken from a healthy and disease-free plant and needs to be compatible with the rootstock. The two parts are then joined using specific techniques to ensure proper alignment and healing. Grafting requires skill and experience, and it is usually done by professional growers or experienced gardeners.
Disease Management
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer is relatively resistant to diseases, but some common diseases that can affect the plant are:
- Fungal leaf spots
- Cedar rust
- Fire blight
Fungal leaf spots can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves and avoiding overhead irrigation. Cedar rust can be prevented by removing nearby junipers, which serve as alternate hosts for the disease. Fire blight can be managed by pruning and destroying infected branches.
Pest Management
Some common pests that can affect Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. bicknellii (Egglest.) Palmer are:
- Aphids
- Scales
- Mites
Aphids can be managed by spraying the affected foliage with a solution of water and insecticidal soap. Scales can be removed manually or by spraying the plant with horticultural oil. Mites can be deterred by ensuring the plant is not stressed, as stressed plants are more susceptible to infestations. Insecticidal soap can also be used to manage mites.
