Overview of Crataegus flavida Sarg.
Crataegus flavida Sarg. is a species of hawthorn that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is commonly known as yellow-fruit hawthorn, yellow hawthorn, or Flavin hawthorn, and is native to China. It is a small deciduous tree or shrub that usually grows up to 20 feet tall. The tree blooms in late spring to early summer and produces small white or pink flowers that have a sweet fragrance.
Appearance of Crataegus flavida Sarg.
The tree has a rounded crown with a thickset trunk and twigs that have thorns. The leaves are dark green, glossy, oval-shaped with serrated edges, and are about 2-3 inches long. The bark of the tree is smooth, grayish-brown, and becomes wrinkled with age. The yellowish-green fruit of the tree is about the same size as a cherry and ripens in mid to late autumn. The fruit has a sweet, sour, and slightly astringent taste and is high in vitamin C.
Uses of Crataegus flavida Sarg.
The tree has medicinal uses and is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as indigestion, diarrhea, hypertension, and coronary heart disease. The fruit is also used to make jams, jellies, and preserves. The wood of the tree is dense and hard and is used for fuel, carving, and making furniture. The tree's thorny branches and dense foliage make it an excellent barrier plant and are also used in landscaping.
In conclusion, Crataegus flavida Sarg. is a versatile plant that has multiple uses and benefits. Whether you are looking for a natural remedy, a tasty fruit, or a long-lasting fence, this plant has something to offer. Its attractive appearance and adaptability make it a popular choice for gardens, parks, and natural areas.
Light Requirements
The plant Crataegus flavida Sarg. grows best in full sunlight. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight exposure per day for optimal growth. Insufficient light exposure can result in a weak and spindly plant with poor flowering and fruiting.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Crataegus flavida Sarg. prefers a moderate temperature climate. It can tolerate cold weather with temperatures reaching -40°C during winter. However, it cannot tolerate extremely high temperatures. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 18°C and 25°C during the growing season.
Soil Requirements
The plant Crataegus flavida Sarg. prefers well-drained, loam or sandy soils with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. It can also grow in clay soils but prefers a soil mixture with organic matter. The plant can tolerate dry conditions, but for optimal growth, it requires moist soil. Soil compaction should be avoided, as it can lead to root damage and impede growth.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus flavida Sarg. is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to cultivate. It prefers well-draining soil and should be grown in an area with full sun exposure. This plant is highly adaptable and can tolerate many soil types, including clay and loam. When planting, it is important to space the shrubs adequately to allow for proper growth and air circulation.
Watering Needs
During the first growing season, Crataegus flavida Sarg. should be watered regularly to ensure that it develops a deep root system. Once established, this plant requires little to moderate watering. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently, rather than frequent shallow watering. This will encourage deep root growth and help prevent disease.
Fertilization
Crataegus flavida Sarg. does not require heavy fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring. Fertilizer should be applied to the soil, not the foliage, and should be watered in thoroughly to prevent burning. Avoid over-fertilizing or applying fertilizer during the hot summer months.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Crataegus flavida Sarg., but it can help maintain the shape and size of the shrub. Light pruning can be done in early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out any overcrowded areas. Avoid pruning in late summer or fall, as this can stimulate new growth that is susceptible to winter damage.
Propagation of Crataegus flavida Sarg.
Crataegus flavida Sarg., also known as yellow hawthorn, can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
Propagation from seeds
The seeds of yellow hawthorn are best sown fresh in the fall or stratified for 90-120 days before sowing. They require a period of cold, moist stratification to break dormancy and promote germination. The stratified seeds can be sown in the spring when the soil has warmed up. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 4-6 weeks.
Propagation from cuttings
Yellow hawthorn can be propagated from hardwood or softwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Hardwood cuttings should be taken in the fall after the leaves have dropped. The cuttings should be 15-20 cm long and have at least 2-3 nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area. Rooting usually occurs within a few weeks to a few months.
Disease Management
Crataegus flavida Sarg. is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Cedar Hawthorn Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes yellow spots on leaves, followed by the appearance of brown spots with orange spore masses in the late summer. Management includes removing infected leaves and pruning out galls.
- Fire Blight: This bacterial disease causes wilted shoots and blackened leaves and blossoms. The management includes pruning out the infected area and applying copper sprays.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes small, circular brown spots with yellow halos on the leaves. Management includes removing infected leaves and pruning out the affected branches.
Pest Management
Crataegus flavida Sarg. is susceptible to several pests, including:
- Hawthorn Lace Bug: This insect pest causes yellow speckles on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and die. Management includes applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Apple Maggot: This insect pest lays eggs in developing fruit, causing brown tunnels in the flesh. Management includes bagging fruit and applying insecticide sprays.
- Hawthorn Borer: This insect pest bores into the trunk, causing wilting and dieback. Management includes removing infested branches and applying insecticides.
