Overview
Crataegus laevigata, commonly known as Midland hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. The tree grows up to 8 meters in height and 4 meters in width. The plant is grown for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Common Names
The plant has many common names, depending on the country and region. In Europe, it is commonly known as Midland hawthorn, English hawthorn, mayflower, whitethorn, or common hawthorn. In North America, it is referred to as red haw, whitethorn, or thornapple.
Uses
Crataegus laevigata has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including cardiovascular disorders, diarrhea, anxiety, and high blood pressure. It is believed to contain compounds that improve blood flow, dilate blood vessels, and reduce inflammation. The plant's leaves, fruits, flowers, and bark are used medicinally.
In addition to its medicinal value, Crataegus laevigata is grown for its ornamental value. The plant has attractive white or pink flowers that bloom from May to June. The flowers are followed by small red or black berries that persist throughout the winter. The tree's leaves turn yellow, orange, or red in autumn. The tree is often used in hedges, screens, and as a specimen plant.
General Appearance
The Midland hawthorn is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach up to 8 meters in height. The plant has a dense crown and a pyramid-shaped canopy. The bark is gray and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and fissured with age. The tree's dark green leaves are about 2-5 cm long, glossy, and have serrated edges. The flowers are about 1 cm in diameter and have five white or pink petals. The plant's fruit is a small red or black pome, which is about 1 cm in diameter.
The Midland hawthorn is a hardy and adaptable plant that can tolerate various soil types, light conditions, and temperatures. It grows best in full sun to part shade and well-drained soils. The plant is resistant to pests and diseases and requires minimal care.
Light Requirements
Crataegus laevigata generally prefers full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. Exposure to direct sunlight for at least six hours a day is ideal for the plant’s growth and development. The plant can also tolerate partial shade, but the flowers and fruits produced are relatively fewer and smaller in size.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in different temperature zones, including temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions. However, it is most commonly found in temperate zones with average temperatures around 68°F (20°C). The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -22°F (-30°C) to 104°F (40°C). The roots of the plant are relatively hardy and can withstand harsh winter conditions, whereas the leaves and flowers are more sensitive to frost conditions.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus laevigata thrives in well-drained, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 7.2. It can also grow in soil with an alkaline pH, but it may lead to stunted growth and reduced yields. Good soil drainage is crucial for the plant's growth because waterlogging can cause root rot and other fungal diseases that can lead to plant death. The addition of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure can help improve soil structure and fertility and promote healthy growth of the plant.
Cultivation
Crataegus laevigata, commonly known as the English hawthorn, is a popular shrub that is grown for its ornamental flowers and fruit. It can be grown in various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, as long as the soil is well-drained. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate drought conditions once established. It is also important to note that Crataegus laevigata plants can tolerate mild frost but not severe winter conditions.
Watering Needs
Crataegus laevigata plants require regular watering, especially during the first growing season. However, excessive watering can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's health. As such, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and not watered too frequently. Watering should be done deeply and less frequently to allow the roots to absorb the moisture properly.
Fertilization
Crataegus laevigata plants require regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and optimal flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied in spring, just before new growth begins. However, too much nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers and fruit. As such, it is important to follow the recommended fertilizer application rates.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of Crataegus laevigata plant care. It helps to maintain the plant's shape, encourage healthy growth, and promote flower and fruit production. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Dead and damaged branches should be removed, and diseased parts of the plant should be cut out. Additionally, crossing branches and suckers should also be removed to maintain an open and healthy plant structure.
Propagation of Crataegus laevigata
Crataegus laevigata, commonly known as the English hawthorn, is a small, deciduous tree or shrub that belongs to the rose family. The tree is native to Europe and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Propagation Methods
C. laevigata can be propagated through several methods such as seed propagation, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for C. laevigata is through seeds. The seeds are usually sown in the fall, and they require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. The best way to stratify the seeds is by placing them in a container with moist peat or sand and storing the container in the refrigerator for three to four months. After stratification, the seeds can be sown directly outdoors in early spring or in pots indoors, and then transplanted outdoors after the last frost.
Cuttings Propagation
C. laevigata can also be propagated through softwood or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken in the early summer, while hardwood cuttings are taken in the late fall or winter. The cuttings are usually 6 to 12 inches long and are taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings are then planted in a rooting medium and kept moist until they establish roots and start to grow.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another propagation method that is commonly used for C. laevigata. The tree is usually grafted onto a rootstock of a closely related species such as C. monogyna or C. pentagyna. The best time for grafting is in late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant. The scion, which is the part of the tree to be grafted, is usually taken from new growth that is about 1/4 inch in diameter. The scion is then attached to the rootstock using a grafting tape or wax and allowed to grow until the graft has healed and the plant is strong enough to be transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus laevigata
Crataegus laevigata, also known as English hawthorn, is a popular ornamental tree that is prone to several diseases and pests. Here are some of the common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fire Blight: This bacterial disease can cause dieback, twig and branch cankers, and small, blackened flowers and fruit. Infected branches will eventually become black and can be pruned out. Make sure to disinfect pruning equipment between each cut. Applying a copper fungicide in the fall can help prevent infection.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes small brown spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by removing infected leaves and debris and ensuring good air circulation around the tree. Applying a fungicide in the spring and fall can help prevent infection.
Pests
Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the tree and can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. They can be controlled by spraying the tree with a jet of water to knock them off or by applying an insecticidal soap or oil.
Apple Maggots: These pests lay their eggs in the fruit, causing it to rot and drop prematurely. Infected fruit should be removed and disposed of. Surrounding the tree with a sticky band can prevent the adult flies from laying eggs on the fruit.
Regularly inspecting the tree for signs of disease or pest infestation and maintaining good cultural practices such as regular fertilization and watering can also help keep Crataegus laevigata healthy.
