Origin of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer
Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer is a species of hawthorn that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The plant is native to North America, primarily found in southeastern states of the USA, including Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. This plant species prefers to grow in savannas, sandhills, and dry woodlands.Common Names of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer
Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer bears the common names, including Hill's Hawthorn, Collin's Hawthorn, and Littleleaf Hawthorn. These names were given to this plant because of its small leaves and habit of growing on hillsides and in rocky areas.Uses of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer
Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer has several traditional medicinal uses. The plant's leaves, flowers, and berries are used to improve digestion, reduce anxiety, and treat heart diseases. Hawthorn tea made from the leaves and flowers can also provide relief from menstrual cramps and high blood pressure. Furthermore, the plant's thorny branches make for great natural fencing, and it can be used in the garden as an ornamental plant.General Appearance of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer
Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 10-15 feet tall and wide. The plant's crown is dense and rounded, and its dark green leaves measure up to 2 inches long with pronounced serrations along the edges. The flowers of the plant are white with a pink tinge and grow in clusters. The plant's fruits are bright red pomes with a diameter of about 0.5 inches. The plant's branches are covered with thorns that can grow up to 2 inches long and help deter pests from feasting on its leaves and fruits.Growth Conditions for Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer
Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer is a shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as Chapman's hawthorn or Little Mountain hawthorn and it is native to the southeastern part of the United States.
Light Requirements
Chapman's hawthorn prefers full sun to partial shade, especially in the morning when the sun is less intense. In areas with a hot climate, it is recommended to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent heat stress to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This shrub is well adapted to a wide range of temperatures, from cool to hot. It can tolerate temperatures as low as - 4°F (- 20°C) in winter, as well as temperatures as high as 104°F (40°C) in summer. However, it needs a period of cold dormancy during the winter to break bud dormancy and bloom in the spring.
Soil Requirements
Chapman's hawthorn prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils, as long as they are not compacted. The plant prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, but it can tolerate a wider range of soil pH.
When planting Chapman's hawthorn, it is essential to ensure adequate drainage. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
In conclusion, Chapman's hawthorn is a versatile shrub that can thrive in a variety of growth conditions. However, it is essential to provide it with adequate light, temperature, and soil conditions to ensure optimal growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
The Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer plant requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It is a hardy plant that can grow in various soil types but prefers loamy soils. The plant is best suited to grow in sunny areas but can also grow in semi-shaded areas. It is essential to have adequate space between the plants for good air circulation.
Watering Needs
The plant requires adequate moisture to grow, especially during the growing season. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering as the roots of the plant can quickly rot. Water the plant at least once a week, depending on the soil, humidity, and temperature. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer does not require excessive fertilization. The best time to fertilize the plant is in the early spring, just before the growth season. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer, one that contains an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium.
Pruning
The plant requires some pruning to shape it and stimulate new growth. It is best to prune during the growing season but avoid pruning during the dormant season. Light pruning can be done regularly to maintain the desired shape, while heavy pruning should be done every few years to keep the plant healthy. Prune the plant just above the bud, and remove any weak, damaged, or dead branches.
Propagation of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer
Propagation of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer can be done through different methods including seed propagation, hardwood and softwood cuttings, and layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer can be collected from ripe fruits. The seeds should be cleaned and dried before planting. They can be sown in pots or containers in early spring. The pots should be filled with a well-draining soil mix, and the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The pots should be watered regularly, and the seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location after they reach a suitable size.
Hardwood Cuttings
Hardwood cuttings of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer can be taken in winter when the plant is dormant. The selected cuttings should be about 6-8 inches long with a diameter of ¼ to ½ inches. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded area until they form new roots. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location in the spring.
Softwood Cuttings
Softwood cuttings of Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer can be taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long with a diameter of ¼ to ½ inches. The bottom leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area until they form new roots. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location in the fall.
Layering
Layering is another propagation method that can be used for Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer. In this method, a low branch of the plant is bent down to the ground, and a small trench is dug where the branch is in contact with the soil. The branch is wounded slightly and covered with soil. The branch should be watered regularly, and roots will develop at the wounded area. After roots have formed, the branch can be severed from the parent plant and transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer is commonly affected by fungal diseases such as fire blight, cedar quince rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Fire blight is characterized by blackened leaves, flowers, and twigs, while cedar quince rust results in oval-shaped lesions on leaves and fruits. Powdery mildew appears as white fungal growth on the surface of leaves, and leaf spot causes brown spots on leaves and fruits.
To manage these fungal diseases, cultural practices such as pruning infected branches and removing diseased leaves and fruits can help to reduce the spread of the diseases. Foliar application of fungicides such as copper-based sprays can also be effective in managing these diseases.
Pest Management
Crataegus collina Chapman var. collicola (Ashe) Palmer is vulnerable to insect pests such as aphids, mites, and scale insects. Aphids feed on the sap of tender shoots and leaves, resulting in distorted and stunted growth. Mites cause leaves to appear yellow and stippled, while scale insects feed on sap and produce honeydew, which attracts ants and encourages the growth of sooty mold.
To manage these pests, cultural practices such as pruning infested branches and avoiding excessive application of nitrogenous fertilizers can help deter pest infestations. Natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to control aphids and mites. Foliar application of insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils can also be effective in managing these pests.
