Overview of Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer is a small deciduous flowering tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant species is also known by various common names including Goldenberry Hawthorn, Caesar's Hawthorn, and Red Haw. The plant is native to North America and can be found growing throughout the western United States and Canada.
General Appearance of Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer typically grows up to 20 feet in height and 15 feet in width. The plant has a rounded and dense crown with numerous branches. The leaves of the plant are shiny, dark green, and have lobed edges. During flowering season, the plant displays clusters of fragrant white flowers. Following the blooming period, small golden berries begin to grow on the plant, providing a bright splash of color to the landscape.
Uses of Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive blooms and decorative fruit. The berries of the plant can also be consumed, either fresh or cooked. They have a sweet and sour taste and are often used to make jams, jellies, and sauces. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat various ailments including heart conditions, digestive problems, and skin disorders.
In summary, Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer is a beautiful deciduous plant that is native to North America. This plant's unique features and various uses make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions. However, the plant performs best in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer tolerates a wide range of temperature conditions, including extreme heat and cold. In general, the plant prefers a cool to moderate climate, with an average temperature range of 10°C-25 °C. The plant does not do well in areas with high humidity.
Soil Requirements
The Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer prefers well-drained, moist soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. The plant is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including loam, clay, and sand. However, the plant does not do well in waterlogged or compacted soils. To improve soil drainage, amend heavy soils with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as the yellow hawthorn, thrives in full sun or partial shade but prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is relatively easy to grow and resistant to most pests and diseases. The best time to plant the tree is in the fall or early spring, depending on your location. When planting, ensure enough space for the tree to grow, and avoid crowding it with other plants or structures. Mulching the base of the tree can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Watering Needs
The yellow hawthorn needs regular watering during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. Afterward, the plant can tolerate drought but still requires occasional watering, especially during hot summers and prolonged dry spells. Water the tree deeply, reaching its entire root zone, rather than frequent shallow watering that could result in shallow roots and weak growth. It is advisable to water in the morning to allow the tree to dry off during the day, minimizing the risk of fungal infections.
Fertilization
The yellow hawthorn generally does not need regular fertilization, especially if planted in rich soil. However, younger trees or those growing in poor soil could benefit from an annual organic fertilizer application in early spring or fall. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive leaf growth and weak branches. A soil analysis can help determine if any nutrient deficiencies exist, and the appropriate fertilizer to use.
Pruning
Pruning the yellow hawthorn is necessary to promote healthy growth, shape the tree, and remove dead or diseased branches. The best time to prune is during the plant's dormant season, which typically occurs in late winter or early spring. Avoid pruning during the growing season as it could cause excessive bleeding and weaken the tree. Before pruning, ensure your tools are sharp and clean to avoid damaging the tree or spreading diseases. Aim to remove no more than one-third of the tree's total growth to avoid stressing the plant.
Propagation of Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer
Propagating Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer can be done through several methods including seed propagation, hardwood cuttings, and budding or grafting.
Seed Propagation
C. chrysocarpa can be propagated through seeds that are collected from the ripe fruit in the fall. The seeds should be dried and stored in a cool, dry place. In the spring, the seeds can be planted in a prepared bed. Stratification for at least 90 days before planting is advised for better germination. Germination can take up to 3 months.
Hardwood Cuttings
Hardwood cuttings can be taken in the winter and early spring months when the plant is dormant. Cuttings should be taken from the previous season's growth of the plant. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should have at least 2-3 nodes. They should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a prepared bed. It is best to keep the cuttings in a shaded area to prevent them from drying out. Roots can form in 1-2 months.
Budding or Grafting
Budding or grafting can be used to propagate C. chrysocarpa to maintain the characteristics of the parent plant. This method is used to ensure that the new plant will have the same fruit or flower characteristics as the parent plant. This is best done in the late summer or early fall when the bark is slipping. The scion should be collected from the current season's growth and should have at least one bud. It is then grafted onto a rootstock that is selected based on its disease resistance and growth habits.
Disease Management
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as goldenberry hawthorn, is susceptible to some fungal and bacterial diseases. The following are some common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Fire Blight: This is a bacterial disease that affects the plant’s young shoots and cankers. The disease causes the shoots and cankers to turn brown or black and wither. To manage fire blight, prune and dispose of infected twigs and branches, and avoid overhead irrigation.
- Cedar-Apple Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes yellow spots on the leaves of the plant, which later turn brown. The disease can also cause yellow pustules on the upper surface of the leaves. To manage cedar-apple rust, remove infected leaves and avoid planting the plant near cedar trees.
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots can also have a yellow halo around them. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead irrigation.
- Crown Gall: This is a bacterial disease that causes the plant to develop galls on the crown or the roots. The galls can cause stunted growth and reduce the plant’s vigor. To manage crown gall, remove infected plants and avoid injuring the plant.
Pest Management
Crataegus chrysocarpa Ashe var. caesariata (Sarg.) Palmer may also be susceptible to pest infestations. The following are common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the plant’s leaves and stems. The infestation can cause leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, wash off the insects with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Mites: These are small arthropods that pierce the plant’s cells and drain their contents. The infestation can cause leaves to turn yellow and develop speckled patterns. To manage mites, wash off the insects with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Scale Insects: These are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the plant’s leaves and stems. The infestation can cause leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage scale insects, scrape them off with a fingernail or use insecticidal soap.
- Japanese Beetles: These are small beetles that chew on the plant’s leaves and flowers. The infestation can cause skeletonized leaves and premature defoliation. To manage Japanese beetles, pick them off the plant by hand or use an insecticide.
