Origin and Common Names
Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke, commonly known as the high hawthorn, is a tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the southeastern region of the United States, particularly in Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. The plant's common name, "high hawthorn," is derived from its tendency to grow in high altitudes and its membership in the hawthorn genus, which is characterized by its thorny branches and small, berry-like fruit.Appearance
The high hawthorn is a small tree that can grow up to 12 meters in height. It has an oval or rounded crown and dark brown bark with shallow fissures. Its leaves are serrated and glossy, and they come in a range of shapes, including oblong and elliptical, with serrated margins. The plant typically blooms in the spring, producing white flowers that are arranged in dense clusters of up to 20 blooms. The high hawthorn's fruit is a small, red pome that contains a single seed. The fruit is typically consumed by birds and other wildlife, which helps to spread the plant's foliage and promote its growth.Uses
The high hawthorn is a valuable landscape tree that is often used in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. Its dense foliage provides shade and shelter for a variety of wildlife, making it an important contributor to local ecosystems. In traditional medicine, the high hawthorn has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including heart problems, indigestion, and anxiety. Its berries are believed to contain antioxidants and other compounds that can improve cardiovascular health and regulate blood pressure. Some people also use high hawthorn in topical creams and moisturizers, as its oil can help soothe dry, irritated skin.Light Requirements
Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke grows best in full sun or partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to thrive. If planted in a shaded area, it will produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers moderate temperatures with an ideal range between 20-25°C (68-77°F). It can tolerate extreme temperatures ranging between -25°C to 40°C (-13°F to 104°F) but may not grow as well. Extremely hot temperatures can cause the plant to dry out, while too much frost can damage it.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke prefers well-drained soils that are fertile and slightly acidic. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant is adapted to grow in both sandy soils and clay soils, but it grows best in loamy soils with a good balance of sand, clay, and organic matter. A soil that is rich in organic matter can promote growth as it provides the necessary minerals and nutrients that the plant needs.
Cultivation Methods:
Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke, also known as the Ceasar's hawthorn, is a small, deciduous tree that requires full-sun exposure to thrive. It grows well in well-draining, loamy soil and can adapt to a wide range of soil pH. It is important to plant the tree at a depth equal to the container's depth and to avoid planting too deeply.
Proper spacing should be maintained between trees to avoid overcrowding and promote good air circulation. This will minimize the risk of diseases and pests.
Watering Needs:
Regular watering is critical for the optimal growth and health of Crataegus florifera. Newly planted trees require frequent watering during the first year to establish themselves in the soil. After the plant has become established, weekly deep watering is recommended. It is important to water the tree at the base and avoid watering the foliage to help prevent diseases and pests.
Fertilization:
To promote optimal growth and bloom, fertilization is recommended. An all-purpose, slow-release fertilizer should be applied in early spring before the start of the growing season. Follow the package instructions for appropriate application rates.
Pruning:
Regular pruning helps maintain the tree's shape and remove dead or diseased branches. It is recommended to prune the Crataegus florifera in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. It is advisable to avoid pruning in the fall to prevent the development of diseases and pests.
It is important to use clean and sharp pruning tools to reduce the risk of transmitting diseases. Prune selectively, cutting back to a healthy branch or bud, and avoid pruning the top of the tree excessively to prevent the formation of multiple trunks.
Propagation of Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke
Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke, commonly known as the tall hawthorn, can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and grafting. Here's a brief overview of each method:
Propagation via Seeds
Propagation via seeds is a common method, especially for large-scale propagation. The seeds are planted in late fall or early winter in well-draining soil that is consistently moist. The seeds require a period of cold stratification for three to four months before germination can occur. Once the seeds have been stratified, they can be sown in trays or containers indoors.
Propagation via Cuttings
Propagation via cuttings is suitable for woody plants such as Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke. The cuttings should be collected during the dormant season and should be about 20 cm long. Cuttings from current growth may not be suitable for propagation. The basal end of the cutting is treated with rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist, and the cutting should be placed in an environment with high humidity. The cutting should root within three months.
Propagation via Grafting
Propagation via grafting is a method that combines the desired traits of two plants. It involves taking a cutting of the desired cultivar and grafting it onto a different rootstock. This method is the most commonly used for creating clones of specific cultivars. The choice of rootstock depends on the desired characteristics of the plant. The process involves making a slanted cut in the rootstock and matching it with a similar cut on the scion. Then, the two pieces are secured together, and the wound is wrapped with grafting tape.
Disease Management
The Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke, commonly known as the flowering hawthorn, can be affected by several diseases.
Cedar-Apple Rust
This is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves, fruit, and twigs of the hawthorn. Infected leaves will show yellow spots, which eventually turn brown. The fruit will have brownish-red spots, and the twigs may also have small cankers. To manage the disease, remove infected leaves and ensure to destroy them, prune the infected twigs and branches, and use fungicide to control the disease.
Fire Blight
This is a bacterial disease that affects the leaves, fruit, and twigs of hawthorn trees. Infected leaves will turn black and die, while twigs will have a scorched appearance. Fruits will have a water-soaked appearance. To manage the disease, prune the infected twigs and branches, and use a copper fungicide to control the bacterial population.
Pest Management
The Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can cause significant damage if not managed promptly.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause severe damage by sucking the plant's sap, which can lead to stunted growth and weakened plant growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause discoloration on the leaves, leading to defoliation. They prefer hot and dry conditions, so regularly watering the plant can help prevent infestations. In case of an infestation, use an insecticidal soap to control their population.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, slow-moving insects that suck sap from the plant. They leave behind a sticky residue known as honeydew and attract ants. The honeydew is often accompanied by black sooty mold growth. To control scale insects, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, or prune the infected parts of the plant.
Regular monitoring of the plant for disease and pest infestations combined with prompt management measures can help maintain the health and beauty of the Crataegus florifera Sarg. var. celsa (Sarg.) Kruschke.
