Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh
Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh is a variety of the Crataegus douglasii species, which is also known as black hawthorn. This plant variety is native to North America, specifically found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.
Common names
Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh is commonly known as the DuChesne hawthorn in reference to the French explorer and botanist, Antoine Nicolas Duchesne. However, it is also referred to by several other names such as Sierra black hawthorn, Douglas hawthorn, and mountain hawthorn.
Uses
Traditionally, the DuChesne hawthorn has been used for its medicinal properties. The plant is rich in flavonoids, which are believed to have antioxidant properties that may help protect against heart disease. Additionally, the plant has been used to treat high blood pressure, digestive issues, and anxiety. In modern times, the plant is also used as an ornamental tree, appreciated for its beautiful white flowers and vibrant red berries that attract wildlife.
General appearance
The DuChesne hawthorn is a small deciduous tree that typically grows up to 10-15 feet in height. It has a broad and irregular shape, with multiple stems and a rounded crown. The tree has glossy dark green leaves that are lobed and toothed, and in the spring, it produces clusters of small fragrant white flowers. The flowers then give way to striking crimson red berries that persist on the tree through fall and winter. The bark is grayish-brown and becomes smoother with age.
Typical Growth Conditions for Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh
Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach up to 5 meters in height. It is native to North America and can be found in a wide range of habitats such as open woodlands, forest edges, and rocky slopes. To ensure optimal growth and development, this plant requires specific growth conditions for light, temperature, and soil.
Light Requirements
In terms of light, Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh prefers full to partial sun exposure. It can tolerate some shade, but a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight per day is needed for proper growth and flower production. Therefore, it is recommended to plant this species in an area where it can receive adequate sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is adapted to grow in cold climates and can withstand temperatures as low as -28°C. However, it also thrives well in warmer temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh is between 15°C to 25°C during the growing season. In areas with harsh winter conditions, it is recommended to provide adequate protection for the plant to prevent winter injury.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh can thrive in a variety of soil types. However, it prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. This species is also adapted to grow in rocky soils, making it ideal for areas with rocky terrains. To ensure optimal growth, it is recommended to provide regular fertilization and irrigation during the growing season.
Cultivation
Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh, commonly known as Duchesne's hawthorn, can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. The best time to plant seeds is in the fall, while cuttings should be taken in the winter. It can tolerate various soil types, but it prefers well-drained soil with medium moisture. This plant prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.
Watering Needs
It is essential to water newly planted hawthorn trees regularly for the first two years, especially during dry spells. Mature trees are drought-tolerant, but they will benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not usually necessary for Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if the tree appears to be struggling. Make sure to follow the application directions on the fertilizer package.
Pruning
Pruning Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh is not generally required, but it can be done to maintain the tree's shape and size or to remove damaged or dead branches. It is best to prune the tree during its dormant season.
Propagation of Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh
Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh, commonly known as Duchesne's hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that is native to California. Its propagation can be done using a variety of methods such as seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method used for Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh. The seeds should be collected from the fruit when it is fully matured, usually in the fall. The seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool and dry place. They can be planted in late winter or early spring in a seed tray filled with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and regularly watered. Germination usually occurs within 1-2 months.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings can be done in the late spring or early summer, when the new growth is still soft. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of the branches, about 4-6 inches in length, and should have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom node of the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a container filled with a well-draining soil mix, and water regularly. It usually takes about six weeks for the cutting to develop roots.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation by grafting is commonly used for Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh as it helps to maintain the desired characteristics of the parent plant. Grafting is the process of taking a cutting from the desired plant, called the scion, and attaching it to the rootstock of another related plant. The rootstock should be chosen for its hardiness and adaptability to the soil and climate conditions. Grafting should be done in the late winter before the new growth appears. The scion should be cut at an angle and secured to the rootstock with grafting tape. In about a year, the scion should have grown and merged with the rootstock to form a new plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh
Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh, commonly known as black hawthorn, is a small tree that is native to western North America. While generally resistant to pests and diseases, there are still some common issues that can affect this plant. Here are some tips for managing those issues:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh is fire blight. This bacterial disease can cause the plant to develop blackened, shriveled leaves and twigs that look as though they have been scorched by fire. To manage this disease, it is important to prune infected branches at least a foot below where the symptoms are visible. Be sure to sterilize your pruning tools between cuts to avoid spreading the disease.
Cedar hawthorn rust is another disease that can affect Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh. This fungal disease causes orange or yellow spots to form on the leaves, which eventually become black and drop off. To manage cedar hawthorn rust, it is important to remove infected leaves and sanitize pruning tools.
Pests
Mites and aphids can be a problem for Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh. These pests can cause leaf curling or distortion, and can also produce a sticky substance on the leaves known as honeydew. This substance can attract ants and other insects, further complicating the issue. To manage mites and aphids, try using a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the leaves. Alternatively, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Borers are another potential pest for Crataegus douglasii Lindl. var. duchesnensis Welsh. These insects can bore into the trunk or branches of the plant and cause significant damage. To manage borers, it is important to keep your plant healthy and well-watered. You can also use sticky traps or insecticides to manage these pests, but be sure to follow all instructions carefully.
