Description of Crataegus dallasiana Sarg.
Crataegus dallasiana Sarg., also known as Dallas hawthorn, is a plant species belonging to family Rosaceae. It is native to the southeastern United States and is commonly found in the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. The plant is named after George M. Dallas, the Vice President of the United States from 1845-1849.
General Appearance
The Dallas hawthorn is a small, deciduous tree or large shrub, with a height of approximately 5-12 meters (16-39 feet). It is, however, often much smaller, especially in cultivation. The plant is characterized by its thorny branches, which are often twisted and gnarled, and its beautiful white flowers, which bloom in early spring. The flowers are followed by small, red fruits that ripen in the fall and persist on the tree throughout the winter.
Common Names
The Dallas hawthorn is commonly known by several other names, including Red Haw, Scarlet Haw, and Cockspur Thorn. The name "hawthorn" is derived from the Old English "hagaþorn," which means "hedge thorn." It is so named because of its characteristic thorns, which make it an effective deterrent against animal browsing.
Uses
The Dallas hawthorn is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive flowers and fruits. However, some Native American tribes used the plant's bark and roots to make a tea that was used to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, indigestion, and heart problems. The fruits are also edible and can be made into jams, jellies, and syrups. Additionally, the plant is used in traditional medicine to treat cardiovascular disease, hypertension and hyperlipidemia.
Growth Conditions for Crataegus dallasiana Sarg.
Crataegus dallasiana Sarg. is a small tree native to north-central Texas in the United States. It is commonly known as the Dallas hawthorn and is relatively easy to cultivate in suitable growing conditions.
Light Requirements
The Dallas hawthorn prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow well in a variety of light conditions, but it thrives in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In shaded areas, the plant may grow tall and spindly, which can lead to weakened branches.
Temperature Requirements
The Dallas hawthorn is well-suited to grow in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9, where the average minimum temperature ranges from -10 to 20°F. The plant is tolerant of both cold and hot temperatures, but it prefers moderate temperatures and does not do well in extreme weather conditions.
Soil Requirements
The Dallas hawthorn grows best in well-draining soils, which are not waterlogged. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH level of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be enriched with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to boost the nutrient content. Additionally, the soil should be aerated and loosened before planting to promote root development.
In conclusion, Crataegus dallasiana Sarg. thrives in full sun to partial shade, moderate temperatures, and well-draining soil with sufficient organic matter. By providing these optimal growth conditions, you can successfully cultivate Dallas hawthorn in your garden or landscape.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus dallasiana Sarg. is a plant that thrives in full sunlight or partial shade. It grows best in well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. The plant can tolerate drought conditions, but it is essential to avoid waterlogging the soil as it can adversely affect it. The best time to plant this plant is in the spring or fall.
When planting this plant, loosen the soil in the planting hole and add organic matter such as leaf mold or compost. Gently firm the soil around the roots and water well. Keep the soil evenly moist until the plant is established.
Watering Needs
Crataegus dallasiana Sarg. is a drought-tolerant plant. However, it is essential to keep the soil evenly moist when the plant is young or during a prolonged drought. To avoid waterlogging the soil, it is advisable to water the plant once per week using a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose. Ensure you water the plant early in the morning or late in the afternoon to allow the plants to absorb water before the heat of the day.
Fertilization
Crataegus dallasiana Sarg. does not require frequent fertilization. Feeding the plant twice per year, in the spring and the fall, is adequate. Use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Ensure you follow the manufacturer's instructions on the amount of fertilizer to use. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it can cause excessive tender growth and increase the risk of pests and diseases.
Pruning
Pruning of Crataegus dallasiana Sarg should be done in its dormant season. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring. When pruning this plant, ensure you remove damaged, diseased, or dead branches using sharp pruning shears. Cut back the branches by a third to stimulate new growth and improve the plant's shape.
It is also advisable to prune the plant lightly in the summer, cutting back any new growth to the first or second leaf node. This helps to control the plant's size, stimulate new growth, and increase the number of flowers and fruit at the end of the season.
Propagation of Crataegus dallasiana Sarg.
There are various methods of propagating Crataegus dallasiana Sarg. that horticulturists can use. Some of the most commonly used methods include:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seed is a cost-effective method of growing Crataegus dallasiana Sarg. However, it may take longer to get the desired results. This method involves planting the seeds in a well-draining and fertile soil. Since the seeds require a period of cold stratification to germinate, they should first be stored in a damp, cool environment for an extended period. When the seeds are ready for planting, sow them in a pot, water them, and place them in a warm location that has bright light. After the emergence of seedlings, the young plants can be transplanted to their final location.
Softwood Cuttings Propagation
Softwood cuttings refer to young, tender branches of Crataegus dallasiana Sarg., which are taken in spring and early summer when the plant is actively growing. To root the cuttings, remove the lower leaves and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone. Growers should also ensure that the soil is moist and warm and that the cuttings are receiving bright, indirect light to encourage growth. After the cuttings have rooted, transplant them to their final pots, and give them the necessary care.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting involves attaching a dormant scion or bud from one plant to another. Grafting can be done on young plants or mature trees. For best results, ensure that the rootstock is compatible with the scion before grafting. After grafting, the plant should be kept in a moist, warm location and protected from direct sunlight. Successful grafting will result in a plant with better disease resistance and improved performance.
Disease Management:
Crataegus dallasiana Sarg. is prone to various diseases, and it is essential to manage them to ensure healthy growth. The common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Fire Blight: It is a bacterial disease that affects the flowers, fruit, and shoots of the plant, causing them to turn black and die. To manage this disease, prune the affected parts below the infected portion, disinfect the pruning tools, and destroy the infected parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow or orange spots on the leaves, which later turn black or brown and fall off the plant. To manage rust, remove the infected leaves, and destroy them. Applying a fungicide can also help control the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery substance to form on the leaves of the plant. To manage the disease, prune the affected parts, improve air circulation and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management:
The plant can attract several insects, but the most common pests to look out for include:
- Aphids: They suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and develop a sticky substance. To manage aphids, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mites: They cause damage to leaves by creating small lesions or yellow speckling. To manage mites, maintain high humidity levels, prune affected parts, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: They chew holes in the leaves and can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, handpick them, or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxin.
