Overview
Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. (pro sp.) is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Rosaceae. It is a hybrid plant, resulting from the crossing of two species of hawthorn: Crataegus laevigata and Crataegus monogyna. This plant is also known by several common names, including Hudson hawthorn, Scarlet hawthorn, and Waxy hawthorn.
Appearance
The Hudson hawthorn is a medium-sized shrub, typically growing up to 6 meters in height and spreading around 4 meters in width. It has a dense, rounded, and spreading growth habit, forming a broad and thick crown. The leaves of the Hudson hawthorn are deeply lobed, glossy green, and have serrated edges. The flowers are pink, white, or red, with five petals and several stamens, and bloom in May to June. The fruit, which is edible but not commonly consumed, is a small, pome-type structure, about 1 cm in diameter, and ripens from August to September.
Origin
The Hudson hawthorn is native to North America, specifically in the eastern part of the continent. It was originally discovered by the botanist Charles Sprague Sargent in 1916 in the Hudson River Valley of New York, hence its name. The plant was further studied and described by Sargent in 1924, who confirmed its hybrid origin.
Uses
The Hudson hawthorn is often used in landscaping and ornamental gardening. Its attractive flowers, foliage, and fruit make it an excellent choice for hedgerows, wildlife gardens, parks, and street-side plantings. Its dense growth habit also makes it a suitable plant for screening and windbreaks. Furthermore, the Hudson hawthorn is known for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating cardiovascular diseases. Its leaves, flowers, and fruits contain flavonoids, which are believed to improve blood circulation and reduce hypertension. However, before using this plant for medicinal purposes, it is necessary to consult a doctor or a licensed herbalist to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Light Requirements
The plant Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. (pro sp.) grows best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day to thrive. However, it can also tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. (pro sp.) prefers cooler temperatures, and it can withstand cold up to -30°F (-34°C). It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7. The plant does not tolerate extremely hot and humid conditions, which can cause leaf scorch and damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. (pro sp.) grows well in a range of soils, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, it prefers well-drained soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Poorly-drained soils can cause root rot and damage to the plant.
The plant prefers soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. It benefits from regular applications of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. (pro sp.) is a hardy plant that can grow in various soils. However, it thrives best in well-draining soils with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. It is crucial to plant the shrub in an area with full sun exposure to stimulate optimal growth.
The plant can be grown in containers, but they should be large enough to accommodate the root system. Make sure to place the container in an area with adequate sunlight and provide sufficient drainage holes.
Watering Needs
Proper watering will support Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. (pro sp.) to grow vigorously. The key is to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Too much water may lead to root rot, while excess dryness may cause the plant to wilt.
During the growing season, water the plant once or twice per week, depending on the soil moisture content. In winter, reduce watering to allow the soil to dry between watering intervals.
Fertilization
Fertilizers can significantly enhance the growth and flowering of Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. (pro sp.). One needs to fertilize the plant during the growing period to ensure optimal results.
Apply an all-purpose fertilizer, rich in phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen, during early spring. Follow the application instruction for the dosage, depending on the shrub's size. Avoid applying the fertilizer to the stem and foliage.
Pruning
Pruning Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. (pro sp.) is vital to maintain its shape, promote growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Prune the shrub during the dormant period, usually early spring.
Start by removing any dead, damaged, and diseased branches. Remove any crossing branches or those that grow towards the center of the plant. Trim the longest branches, but avoid removing more than one-third of the shrub's branches in a single pruning session.
When the shrub matures, thin out the center and remove any weaker shoots to encourage the growth of the stronger ones. Regular pruning stimulates profuse flowering, promotes new growth, and ensures that the plant doesn't outgrow.
Propagation of Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg.
Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg., also known as Hudson's hawthorn, is a hybrid plant that was developed by crossing two hawthorn species, namely Crataegus laevigata and Crataegus monogyna. The plant is a small deciduous tree or shrub that belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). It grows up to 25 feet tall and has a spread of 20 feet. The plant is widely cultivated for its attractive spring blossoms and fall foliage. Propagation of Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. can be done through various methods.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest method of propagating Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. The seeds are collected in the fall when the fruit is ripe. The seeds are then cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until spring. In the spring, the seeds are sown in pots or flats filled with a well-draining soil mix. The pots or flats should be kept in a shaded area until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have emerged, they can be transplanted to individual pots and grown for a year before planting in their permanent location.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method of propagating Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. It involves taking stem cuttings from a healthy, mature plant during the dormant season. The cuttings should be about 6 to 8 inches long and have several nodes. The basal end of each cutting should be treated with a rooting hormone to help it establish roots. The cuttings can be planted in pots or flats filled with a well-draining soil mix and kept in a shaded area until they root. Once the cuttings have successfully rooted, they can be transplanted to individual pots and grown for a year before planting in their permanent location.
Air layering propagation
Air layering propagation is a more advanced method of propagating Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. It involves making a small cut through the bark of a healthy, mature plant during the growing season and wrapping a ball of moist sphagnum moss around the cut. The moss should then be wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it moist. Once roots have formed, the rooted portion of the stem can be cut off and planted in a pot or directly in the ground.
Overall, Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. can be propagated through seed, cuttings, or air layering methods. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method depends on the available resources and the desired outcome.
Disease Management
Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. is susceptible to a number of diseases that can decrease its overall health and beauty. The common diseases include:
- Fire Blight: This bacterial disease causes the affected parts of the tree to wilt and turn brown or black. To manage this disease, prune affected branches and spray with copper-based fungicide.
- Cedar-Hawthorn Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on leaves and eventually leads to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove infected plants and avoid planting in areas with cedar trees nearby.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes black or brown spots on leaves. To manage this disease, prune infected leaves and spray with fungicide.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Crataegus ×hudsonica Sarg. is also susceptible to a variety of pests that can negatively impact its health. The common pests include:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage this pest, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf discoloration and defoliation. To manage this pest, spray with neem oil or predatory mites.
- Scale Insects: These small insects attach themselves to branches and leaves, sucking sap from the plant. To manage this pest, prune heavily infested branches and spray with horticultural oil.
Regular inspection of the plant and prompt action can minimize the damage caused by diseases and pests. Keeping the plant well-watered, fertilized, and pruned can also promote its overall health and resilience.
