Overview
Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke is a species of hawthorn tree under the Rosaceae family. This plant is a hybrid between Crataegus coccinioides Ashe and Crataegus punctata Jacq. It is native to North America and grows in many different regions. The plant is also commonly known as "Kruschke's hawthorn" or "hawthorn locuples."Appearance
Kruschke's hawthorn is a small deciduous tree, growing up to 6 to 8 meters (20 to 26 feet) tall. It has a spreading habit and a rounded crown. The bark is a dark gray and quite rough, that is covered with shallow fissures. The leaves are lobed with jagged edges and can grow up to 10 cm (4 inches) in length. During the fall, the leaves change colours from green to a golden yellow. The flowers on the plant are white with pink to red tinges, growing in ?cl?us?t?ers up to 15 cm (6 inches). The fruit which has a diameter of about 1 cm is a bright red, almost as if it were a small apple. The fruit is edible, but it is quite tart and unpleasant to eat.Uses
Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples has several uses as a horticultural tree. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens or parks. The tree is also used to attract birds and insects such as bees due to the nectar the flowers produce. It is known to be a hardy plant and can withstand salt spray and drought. This species of hawthorn has had a long history of medicinal uses as well. The leaves, flowers, and berries contain anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful in treating cardiovascular diseases. The berries were also traditionally used to help speed up digestion and improve indigestion. However, it is always recommended to speak with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.Conclusion
Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke is a fascinating plant that has many benefits for gardeners and medicine. With its hardy nature and beautiful appearance, this tree is a valuable addition to gardens and parks. The medicinal properties make it a plant of great interest for natural remedies.Light Requirements
The Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke plant requires full sunlight to grow and flourish. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Therefore, it is best to plant the tree in an area with unobstructed, direct exposure to the sun.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for this plant is well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It prefers a pH level between 5.5 to 7.0. The plant may grow in sandy or loamy soils as long as the soil is not heavy clay. The soil should be moderately fertile with a good amount of organic matter. The plant may not do well in soils that retain excessive amounts of water.
Temperature Requirements
The Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand temperatures as low as -18°C and as high as 40°C. However, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 20°C - 27°C. Extreme temperature fluctuations can damage the plant and may cause it to die. Therefore, it is important to provide a stable temperature range for the plant.
Cultivation
Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke, commonly known as the Pear Hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree native to North America. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8 and prefers moist, well-drained soils.
When planting the tree, choose a spot with full sun exposure and adequate space as the tree can reach 15 to 20 feet in height. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting.
Prune any damaged or diseased branches before planting to ensure the health of the tree.
Watering Needs
Crataegus coccinioides requires consistent watering, especially during the first growing season. Water the tree deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil has dried out. During the winter months, reduce watering, but make sure the soil never becomes completely dry.
Fertilization
Feed the Pear Hawthorn tree with a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid fertilizing in fall or winter, as it can stimulate late-season growth that can be damaged by frost.
Pruning
Prune the Pear Hawthorn tree during the dormant season, late fall or winter before new growth appears in the spring. Remove any damaged or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. Also, prune to maintain the desired shape and size of the tree.
Avoid heavy pruning or pruning during the growing season, as it can stimulate unwanted growth and reduce flowering the following season.
Propagation of Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke
Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke can be propagated using different methods, including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Seeds
The most common propagation method for Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the ripe fruit and sown in the fall. To increase the germination rate, some scarification methods can be used, including mechanical scarification or soaking the seeds in hot water before sowing. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moderately moist until germination.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another method of propagating Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke. Hardwood cuttings are taken in the winter, while softwood cuttings can be taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until they develop roots.
Layering
Layering is a propagation method that involves bending a branch of the plant and burying it beneath the soil. After some time, roots will form at the base of the bent branch, and the new plant can be cut away from the parent plant. Layering can be done in the spring or fall and is an excellent method for propagating older, established plants.
Disease Management
Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke is susceptible to fungal diseases such as cedar hawthorn rust, fire blight, leaf spots, and powdery mildew. To manage these diseases, it is important to keep the plant healthy through proper watering, fertilization, and pruning.
Cedar hawthorn rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow-orange spots on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, prune infected plant parts and remove fallen leaves and stems. Fungicides may also be used to prevent the disease.
Fire blight is a bacterial disease that causes leaves and blooms to wilt and turn black. To manage this disease, prune infected plant parts at least six inches below visible symptoms. Disinfect pruning tools between cuts and dispose of infected plant parts properly.
Leaf spots are caused by various fungi that cause circular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and stems and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used to prevent the disease.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, prune infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used to prevent the disease.
Pest Management
Crataegus coccinioides Ashe var. locuples (Sarg.) Kruschke is also susceptible to pest infestations such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and take action before the infestation becomes severe.
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to wash the insects off. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can also be used to control the infestation.
Spider mites are tiny pests that cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves. To manage this pest, prune off heavily infested leaves and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control the infestation.
Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant. To manage this pest, prune off heavily infested plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control the infestation.
