Origin & Common Names
Crataegus integriloba Sarg. is a species of hawthorn that is native to the eastern United States, particularly areas around the Appalachian Mountains. It is also commonly known as the Appalachian hawthorn, mountain hawthorn, and grapeleaf hawthorn.
General Appearance
The Appalachian hawthorn is a small, deciduous tree or shrub that can reach up to 6 meters in height. It has an irregular growth habit and forms a wide, spreading crown. The leaves are oval to oblong-shaped, with serrated edges, and can grow up to 15 cm in length. The flowers are white or pinkish-white and grow in clusters in the spring, while the fruits are small red berries that ripen in the fall and can persist on the tree throughout the winter. The bark is grayish-brown and smooth, but can become rougher as the tree ages.
Uses
The Appalachian hawthorn has several uses in traditional medicine. The tree's bark, leaves, and berries are used to make tonics and teas that are believed to help improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, and alleviate digestive complaints. The fruit is also eaten by birds and other wildlife, while the tree provides cover and nesting sites for birds and small animals. In landscaping, the Appalachian hawthorn is often grown as an ornamental tree for its attractive foliage, flowers, and fruits.
Growth Conditions for Crataegus integriloba Sarg.
Crataegus integriloba Sarg., commonly known as the apple hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. Understanding the growth conditions of Crataegus integriloba Sarg. is important for its successful cultivation, propagation, and management.
Light Requirements
The apple hawthorn is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sunlight. It prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Insufficient sunlight can lead to poor growth, weak foliage, and a decrease in flower and fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus integriloba Sarg. is native to the southeastern United States, where it is adapted to a warm and humid climate. It prefers temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F) during the growing season. In areas with extremely cold winters, the plant may require protection from frost to prevent damage to the roots and stems.
Soil Requirements
The apple hawthorn prefers well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It has a moderate tolerance to soil salinity and an acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant can also grow in slightly alkaline soil but may require additional amendments to improve its growth and productivity.
Overall, providing Crataegus integriloba Sarg. with adequate sunlight, suitable temperature, and proper soil conditions can ensure its healthy growth and development. Understanding the specific growth conditions of this plant can help gardeners and horticulturists succeed in their efforts to propagate and cultivate it.
Cultivation Method for Crataegus integriloba Sarg.
Crataegus integriloba Sarg. commonly referred to as the Parsley-leaved Hawthorn is native to North America. It is a small tree that is easy to cultivate in different soils. The plant prefers well-draining soils, which are slightly acidic, nutrient-rich, and moist. You can propagate the plant using seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs for Crataegus integriloba Sarg.
The plant requires consistent watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply to ensure that the water reaches its roots. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this may lead to root rot. Always check the soil moisture levels before watering the plant to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization of Crataegus integriloba Sarg.
The Parsley-leaved Hawthorn requires frequent fertilization to facilitate its growth. Fertilize the plant using a balanced fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, during the growing season, typically from early spring to late summer. You should avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this may cause the leaves to turn yellow, stunting the plant's growth.
Pruning Crataegus integriloba Sarg.
Prune the Parsley-leaved Hawthorn tree in late winter or early spring. During pruning, you should remove any crossing branches or those that rub against each other to ensure that the tree has a strong framework. This will also reduce the likelihood of pests and diseases. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damage and to facilitate faster healing of the cuts.
Propagation of Crataegus integriloba Sarg.
Crataegus integriloba Sarg., commonly known as the Broad-lobed hawthorn, can be propagated by various methods, including seed, cuttings, layering, and grafting. Each of these methods has different requirements and results in varying success rates.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of Crataegus integriloba Sarg. by seed is the easiest method, but it takes longer than other methods and may not guarantee similar characteristics as the parent plant. The seeds of Crataegus integriloba Sarg. need stratification to break the seed's dormancy. The best way to achieve stratification is by leaving seeds in moist sand in the fridge for two to three months. After stratification, seeds can be sown in standard potting soil and placed in a bright location for germination. Germination can take up to six weeks, and the success rate can vary from low to high.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Crataegus integriloba Sarg. by cuttings is an efficient and straightforward method. Softwood cuttings are taken from the new growth and planted in a rooting hormone and sterile medium. Hardwood cuttings are taken during late fall or winter, and the rooting process can take up to six months. Cuttings can be grown in a greenhouse or a protected outdoor area with high humidity and occasional misting. The success rate of propagation by cuttings is moderate to high.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation of Crataegus integriloba Sarg. by layering is a simple and effective method. Select a healthy branch and bend it down to touch the ground, making sure that it is still attached to the parent plant. Cover the bent part with soil, leaving the tip exposed. Keep the soil moist, and after roots have developed, cut the layer from the parent plant and transplant it to a new location. Propagation by layering has a high success rate.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation of Crataegus integriloba Sarg. by grafting involves joining a stem or bud from a desired cultivar onto a rootstock. The rootstock is usually a wild species of Crataegus. The advantage of this method is that it ensures that the new plant will have identical characteristics as the parent plant. However, grafting requires specialized skills and experience and is usually done by professionals. This method has a high success rate if done correctly.
Disease and Pest Management of Crataegus integriloba Sarg.
Crataegus integriloba Sarg. is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many diseases and pests. However, it can still be affected by some common problems that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Cedar-Apple Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes yellow spots on the leaves, followed by orange or rust spots on the undersides. It usually starts on cedar trees and then spreads to apple and hawthorn trees. To manage this disease, keep the area around the tree free of cedar and juniper trees, and use fungicides to treat the plant.
Fire Blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes wilting, blackening, and death of shoots and branches. The disease usually spreads during wet weather and can be transmitted by insects, birds, and tools. To manage this disease, prune affected branches and disinfect tools after use. Also, use copper sprays to treat the plant and avoid wetting the leaves during watering.
Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and use fungicides to treat the plant.
Pests
Aphids: These are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant and cause curling of leaves and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control their population.
Codling Moth: These are small insects that infest the fruit of the plant and cause damage. To manage this pest, use pheromone traps to trap male moths and prevent them from mating. Also, use insecticides to control their population.
Spider Mites: These are small pests that feed on the leaves of the plant and cause yellowing and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control their population. Also, increase the humidity around the plant to discourage their growth.
By following these methods, you can effectively manage the diseases and pests that might affect your Crataegus integriloba Sarg. plant and ensure its proper growth and yield.
