Overview
Crataegus flava Ait. is a plant species in the rose family, which is commonly known as the yellow hawthorn. This plant is native to North America and is mostly found in the southern part of the continent.
Description
The yellow hawthorn is a small tree or shrub that grows up to a height of 3-6 meters. The tree has a dense, rounded crown with branches that spread widely. The leaves are alternate, simple, and have finely serrated edges. The flowers of the yellow hawthorn are white, clustered, and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruits are small, red, and spherical.
Common Names
The yellow hawthorn is commonly known as the dotted hawthorn, scarlet haw, red haw, and yellow-fruited hawthorn.
Uses
Crataegus flava Ait. has several medicinal uses. The plant parts are used to treat heart problems, digestive disorders, and high blood pressure. The fruit of the yellow hawthorn is edible and was traditionally used by Native Americans to make jams and jellies. The plant is also known for its ornamental value and is grown as a hedge or border plant in gardens and parks.
Light Requirements
Crataegus flava Ait. requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate partial shade but will thrive best in areas with an abundance of sunlight. Inadequate light exposure can result in poor growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant tolerates a wide range of temperatures but prefers a temperate climate with average temperatures between 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F). Crataegus flava Ait. can survive frost, but freezing temperatures for prolonged periods can cause damage to the plant. Extremely high temperatures can also be detrimental, and prolonged exposure to temperatures above 30°C (86°F) can cause wilting and damaged leaves.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus flava Ait. thrives in well-draining soils and is capable of growing in a variety of soil types. However, the plant prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.0. It is also crucial for the soil to be rich in organic matter, as this provides essential nutrients to the plant. The soil's texture should be loamy, with adequate moisture retention ability, and good aeration to support the plant's root system.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus flava Ait. is a deciduous shrub typically grown in gardens for ornamental purposes. When planting this plant, ensure you choose a spot that receives full sun, although it can grow in partial shade too. It thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soils, including loamy and clay soils.
It is recommended to plant this shrub in the fall, but it can also thrive when planted in spring. Ensure to dig a planting hole that is relatively larger than the root ball of the plant to accommodate the roots and help them establish well.
Watering Needs
Like most plants, Crataegus flava Ait. requires adequate water to grow. Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to help the roots establish well. Afterward, you can reduce the amount of water while ensuring the soil does not dry out completely. During the hot and dry season, it might require more water to keep it hydrated and healthy.
Fertilization
Crataegus flava Ait. requires adequate fertilization for optimal growth. You can fertilize the plant in early spring before it begins to establish new growth. Use a slow-release fertilizer designed for deciduous shrubs and apply according to the manufacturer's instructions. Overfertilization can harm the plant, so it is essential to apply the right amounts.
Also, adding organic matter like well-rotted manure or compost to the soil before planting can be beneficial as it helps to improve soil nutrient levels and provide adequate drainage.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for Crataegus flava Ait. to help it maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring when it is still dormant. Trim back any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, leaving only the healthy ones. You could also prune out any crossing or rubbing branches since they can harm the plant.
Also, to promote bushier growth, you could cut back one-third of the older branches to almost ground level. Reducing the shrub's overall size can also be done by cutting back the stem tips to entice a fuller and more compact habit.
Propagation of Crataegus flava Ait.
Crataegus flava Ait. is commonly known as the yellow hawthorn and is a shrubby tree in the Rosaceae family. Several propagation methods can be employed to propagate the plant successfully.
Seed Propagation
Yellow hawthorn can be propagated by seed, collected in the fall when they are ripe. After collection, they should be soaked in water for a day and sown into well-drained soil in the spring. The germination rate is typically high, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual containers once they are large enough to handle.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are another propagation method for Crataegus flava Ait. Hardwood cuttings, taken in the late fall when the leaves have fallen off, can be used for propagating hawthorn. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long, and the leaves should be removed from the bottom of the cutting. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and then placed in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should root in about six to eight weeks.
Air Layering Propagation
Another propagation method for yellow hawthorn is air layering. A section of the stem is selected, and a cut is made about one-third of the way through the stem. A root-promoting hormone is applied to the cut. A moist medium such as sphagnum moss is wrapped around the cut, and the entire area is enclosed in plastic or foil. Once roots form, the cutting can be separated from the mother plant and planted in well-drained soil.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, Crataegus flava Ait. is an easy plant to propagate, and the propagules typically grow into strong plants. The seedlings, cuttings, or air layered plants should be watered, fertilized, and cared for while they are growing until they are large enough to be transplanted into the field or a landscape setting.
Disease Management
C. flava, commonly known as hawthorn, is prone to various fungal diseases and bacterial infections. Some of the most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Cedar hawthorn rust: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and shrivel. It can be controlled by pruning off the infected parts of the plant and using fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, which can lead to leaf curling and distortion. It can be managed by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant, removing any infected plant debris, and using fungicides.
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease causes the leaves and stems of the plant to turn black and wilt. It can be controlled by pruning off affected parts of the plant and using bactericides.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of disease and to promptly tackle any issues to prevent them from spreading to other parts of the plant.
Pest Management
While C. flava does not suffer from many pest problems, it can be affected by some insects. Here are some common pests to look out for:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant, causing leaf distortion and stunted growth. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of leaves and often leave behind fine webbing. They can be managed by regularly spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These larvae can cause extensive damage to the leaves of the plant. They can be picked off by hand or managed by using Bacillus thuringiensis, a natural bacterial pesticide.
Prevention is key when it comes to pest management. Ensuring that the plant is healthy, well-watered, and properly fertilized can go a long way in preventing pests from infesting it in the first place.
