Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. is also commonly known as Cockspur Thorn, which is native to North America. This species is a deciduous, shrubby tree or tree-like shrub, and is a member of the Rosaceae family.
General Appearance
This species of Crataegus can be up to 9 meters tall, but usually grows as a multistemmed shrub. The bark is grayish-brown and slightly deeply furrowed. The leaves are simple, alternate, and are 4-8 cm long and 2-4 cm broad. They are oval or lanceolate in shape and have jagged edges. The flowers of Cockspur Thorn grows in clusters of 3-5, and are usually small, white and appear in late spring or early summer. The fruits are a pome (a fleshy fruit with a hard core) that is 1-1.5 cm in diameter and is green, turning red in late summer.
Uses
The Cockspur Thorn has been used in traditional medicine to treat heart diseases and digestive disorders. The fruit has also been used to make jelly and wine, while the bark and roots are also used to make various types of teas. Apart from its traditional uses, this species is also used as an ornamental plant due to its long blooming period and attractive flowers.
Light Requirements
Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but this may result in stunted growth and reduced flower and fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety is generally cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures ranging from -40°F (-40°C) to 100°F (38°C). However, it shows the best growth when grown in areas with a cool to moderate climate. It is not recommended for areas with extreme heat and humidity, as this can lead to disease and pest problems.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. prefers well-draining soil that is moderately fertile and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.0-7.0). It can grow in a range of soil types but does best in loamy or sandy soil. It is also susceptible to root rot, so it is important to avoid waterlogged soil and ensure good drainage. Regular addition of organic matter can help improve soil quality and fertility.
Cultivation methods
The Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. plant thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 7, and it is ideal for planting in fall or early spring. To ensure optimal growth, plant the seedlings in an area with good air circulation to prevent disease and pest infestations.
Watering needs
The Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. plant requires frequent watering, particularly during hot, dry periods. Water the plant deeply, so the water reaches the roots, and allow the soil to dry slightly between watering intervals. Avoid over-watering, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is crucial in promoting the healthy growth of the Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. plant to ensure optimal performance. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the onset of new growth. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer to provide nutrients slowly over an extended period. Avoid using too much nitrogen as it can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower and fruit development.
Pruning
Regular pruning is crucial in shaping the Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. plant and promoting healthy growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. Remove any diseased, damaged, or dead branches to prevent the spread of disease and encourage healthy new growth. Use sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the remaining branches. Additionally, you can pinch back new growth to promote bushier growth and remove any suckers growing from the plant's base.
Propagation of Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest., commonly known as the cockspur hawthorn, can be propagated through various methods, including seed, grafting, and cuttings. The most reliable and widely used propagation method is through cuttings.
Propagation by Seed
Propagating by seed is possible, but it is not recommended because the seedlings may not resemble the parent plant. The seed must be stratified for about 90-120 days in a cool, damp environment before sowing in late winter/early spring. Germination can be improved by soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting in a well-draining soil mix.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is a reliable method for propagating Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua, especially if desired traits are to be maintained. The young seedlings, which have a diameter of approximately 0.25 inch, are used as the rootstock. The scion, which is a shoot from a parent plant, is grafted onto the rootstock. Generally, the graft should be kept slightly moist and shaded until new growth indicates that the graft is successful.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is the most efficient and commonly used method for Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua. The best time to take cuttings is during the dormant season, either late fall or early spring. The cuttings should consist of hardwood, 6-8 inches long, with a diameter of about 1/4 inch. Cuttings can be treated with rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining rooting medium. It is important to keep the cuttings moist and shaded, and to provide bottom heat, until new growth indicates successful rooting.
Disease Management
Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. species is susceptible to various diseases and requires proper management to maintain the plant's overall health. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Cedar-Hawthorn Rust
This disease is associated with rust fungi that cause yellow-orange spots on leaves. These spots can turn black over time and cause defoliation and flower blight. To manage this, remove the infected leaves, spray the plant with fungicides and improve air circulation around the plant to reduce the humidity.
Fire Blight
Fire blight is a bacterial disease that causes blackened branches and shriveled leaves. The disease is more common during humid and warm weather conditions. To manage it, prune the affected areas and sterilize your pruning tool to prevent the spread of the disease.
Leaf Spot Diseases
Leaf spot diseases can cause circular or irregular spots on leaves, and the spots can expand and merge over time. The disease can cause premature defoliation if not adequately managed. To control it, apply fungicides, avoid overwatering, and maintain proper sanitation around your plant.
Pest Management
Crataegus crus-galli L. var. exigua (Sarg.) Egglest. is also prone to pest infestations that can affect the plant's growth and reproduction. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck sap from leaves and new growth, causing stunting and yellowing leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or release beneficial insects such as ladybugs.
Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are destructive insects that consume leaves, flowers, and fruits. They can cause severe damage to plants if not controlled. To manage them, handpick the beetles off the plant and drown them in soapy water. You can also use pheromone traps or insecticides to manage the infestation.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing and defoliation. They thrive in hot and dry environments. To manage them, increase the humidity around your plant, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prune affected areas.
