Description of Crataegus desueta Sarg.
Crataegus desueta Sarg. is a deciduous plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family and is native to the southeastern part of the United States. Commonly known as rusty haw, the plant's scientific name is derived from the Greek words 'kratos' meaning strength and 'aigis' meaning hedgehog.
General Appearance
The rusty haw plant typically grows up to 10-15 feet tall and has a spread of 10-15 feet as well. The trunk is usually short and multiple, and the branches are dense and thorny. The leaves are deeply lobed and serrated, with a glossy green surface and a pale underside. The flowers are small and white, arranged in clusters, and bloom in late spring. The fruit is a bright red, rounded pome, about 1 inch in diameter, and contains two to five seeds.
Common Uses
The rusty haw plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Its leaves, flowers, and fruits are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. The plant's extract has been known to aid in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, such as blood pressure, arrhythmia, and angina. It is also used to reduce anxiety and insomnia symptoms, treat indigestion, and support liver health. The fruits are edible and can be used to make jams and jellies. The plant's wood is hard and dense, making it suitable for making tool handles, fence posts, and other objects requiring a durable wood.
In summary, Crataegus desueta Sarg. is a beautiful and useful plant, with medicinal and practical uses and an attractive appearance.
Typical Growth Conditions for Crataegus desueta Sarg.
Crataegus desueta Sarg., commonly known as Merriam's hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub native to North America that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 3.5 meters tall and has a spread of about 2.5 meters.
Light Requirements:
Crataegus desueta Sarg. requires full sun to grow healthily. It should be planted in an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Lack of enough light may cause the plant not to flower or fruit adequately.
Temperature Requirements:
Crataegus desueta Sarg. is adapted to grow in subtropical to temperate climates. It can withstand extreme temperatures and frost, making it an excellent plant for colder areas. The plant's optimal temperature range is between 15-20°C, and it can still grow well even when temperatures are as low as -35°C.
Soil Requirements:
Crataegus desueta Sarg. grows well in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.0-6.5. It can also tolerate mildly alkaline soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and the plant can grow well in most soil textures, including sandy and clay soils. If planting in a container, ensure the soil has good drainage to avoid root rot.
Overall, Crataegus desueta Sarg. is an easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in various growing conditions. However, providing the optimal growing conditions will ensure the plant reaches its full potential.
Cultivation methods for Crataegus desueta Sarg.
Crataegus desueta Sarg. is a plant that is native to the United States, particularly the eastern part of the country. It has serrated leaves, thorny branches, and produces white flowers in the spring and fall. If you want to plant it in your garden, it is recommended that you use well-draining soil, preferably loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant prefers full sun or partial shade and can grow up to 20 feet in height.
Watering needs of Crataegus desueta Sarg.
This plant needs regular and consistent watering, especially in the first growing season. Watering should be done at least once a week, and more frequently during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. A good way to determine if the plant needs water is to stick your finger in the soil up to the first knuckle. If it feels dry, then it’s time to water.
Fertilization of Crataegus desueta Sarg.
You can fertilize Crataegus desueta Sarg. in the early spring before new growth starts with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 mix. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer, which you can apply once a year. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can encourage new growth that can be damaged by winter frost. When applying fertilizer, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pruning of Crataegus desueta Sarg.
Pruning is necessary to keep the plant healthy and to promote new growth. You should prune Crataegus desueta Sarg. in the late winter or early spring, before new growth starts. Use pruning shears to remove diseased, dead, or damaged branches. You can also trim the plant to shape it or to control its size. Avoid pruning too much at once, as this can damage the plant. Also, be sure to sterilize your pruning shears before use to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Crataegus desueta Sarg.
Crataegus desueta Sarg., commonly known as Utah hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the rose family. It is found in native habitats throughout Utah, Colorado, and northern New Mexico. Propagation of Crataegus desueta Sarg. can be done through various methods, including seed propagation, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is one of the easiest methods for propagating Crataegus desueta Sarg. It involves collecting the seeds from the fruit in the fall before they start to decompose. The fruit should be washed, and the seeds should be extracted. The seeds should then be stratified for 60 to 90 days in the refrigerator, wrapped in damp paper towels, and placed in a sealed plastic bag. After stratification, the seeds can be sown indoors or outdoors in early spring.
Cuttings propagation
Softwood cuttings from Crataegus desueta Sarg. can be taken from new growth in the early summer. Cuttings should be taken from the tip of the stem, approximately 6 to 12 inches long. They should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil, either in a pot or directly in the ground. Keep the soil moist, and place the cuttings in a partially shaded area to prevent them from drying out.
Grafting propagation
Grafting is a popular propagation method used for many tree species, including Crataegus desueta Sarg. It involves taking a cutting, or scion, from a mature hawthorn tree and grafting it onto a rootstock. The rootstock should be a compatible species and of the correct age and size. The scion and rootstock are then secured together with grafting tape until they have fully healed. Grafting results in a mature tree much faster than seed propagation or cuttings.
Disease Management for Crataegus desueta Sarg.
C. desueta Sarg. is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases that can impact C. desueta and ways to manage them:
Fungal Diseases
C. desueta is prone to various fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Fungal infections mainly occur during the rainy season, when the humidity is high. To prevent fungal diseases, it is essential to maintain proper air circulation and avoid overcrowding of plants. In case of fungal infections, remove the infected leaves and treat with fungicides as a preventive measure.
Bacterial Infections
C. desueta can be affected by bacterial infections such as fire blight, which is a highly contagious disease. It spreads through infected water, pruning tools, and insects. To prevent fire blight, it is advisable to regularly prune dead branches and remove the infected branches at least six inches below the infected area. Disinfect the pruning tools before and after pruning with a solution of bleach and water. In case of severe bacterial infections, consult a plant pathologist.
Viral Infections
C. desueta is susceptible to viral infections such as the Apple mosaic virus, which can cause mosaic symptoms on leaves and stunt the growth of plants. As there is no cure for viral infections, it is essential to maintain proper cleanliness and use virus-free planting materials.
Pest Management for Crataegus desueta Sarg.
C. desueta may face pest infestations that can weaken the plant's immunity and reduce its productivity. Here are some common pests that can attack C. desueta and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that infest C. desueta, causing yellowing and curling of leaves. To control aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Introduce natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps in the infested area. Spray a strong water jet on the infested plant to knock off aphids.
Tree Borers
Tree borers can cause severe damage to C. desueta by tunneling into the bark and wood. The infected tree shows signs of wilting, flagging, and yellowing of leaves. To manage tree borers, prune the infected branches and remove the borers manually. Use insecticidal sprays to control adults and larvae.
Scale Insects
Scale insects can cause yellowing, wilting and can also transmit viruses. To control scale insects, spray the plant with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Introduce natural predators like ladybugs, predatory mites, and lacewings into the infested area. Use a strong water jet to dislodge the scale insects manually.
