Overview of Crataegus latebrosa Sarg.
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. is a species of hawthorn that is native to the eastern and central United States. It is commonly known as the Parsley-leaved Hawthorn or Hiddenfruit Hawthorn. It belongs to the family Rosaceae and genus Crataegus, which includes approximately 280 species of deciduous shrubs and small trees.
Appearance of Crataegus latebrosa Sarg.
The Parsley-leaved Hawthorn is a small, slow-growing tree or shrub that reaches a height of 6-20 feet and a spread of 8-15 feet. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color. The leaves are deeply lobed and resemble parsley leaves, hence the common name. They are about 2-3 inches long and have an attractive green color in the summer, turning reddish-orange in the fall. The flowers are white or pink and appear in late spring, producing a sweet fragrance. The fruit is a red or orange pome that is about 1/4 inch in diameter and is hidden among the leaves, giving rise to the common name "Hiddenfruit Hawthorn".
Usage of Crataegus latebrosa Sarg.
The Parsley-leaved Hawthorn is a popular ornamental plant that is often planted in gardens and parks for its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and colorful fruit. It is also used medicinally for its cardiovascular benefits. The leaves, flowers, and fruit are harvested and dried for use in herbal medicine. They contain bioflavonoids that help to improve circulation and lower blood pressure. The fruit is also a rich source of antioxidants.
In addition, the Parsley-leaved Hawthorn is used as a food source for wildlife, including birds and small mammals. The fruit is edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and sauces.
Overall, Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. is a valuable plant for both its ornamental and medicinal uses, as well as its important role in the ecosystem.
Light Conditions
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. prefers full sun to partial shade for its growth. It can grow in areas where there is a little shade, but it won't be able to produce as many flowers and fruits as it would in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, although it prefers mild to warm temperatures. The optimum temperature for growth is between 18°C to 22°C. However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C and as high as 40°C.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-drained soils with a pH value between 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils. However, it doesn't grow well in waterlogged and heavy clay soils. The plant can tolerate drought but grows best in well-moist soils.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. is typically grown from seeds. Before planting, stratify the seeds in the refrigerator for 90-120 days to promote germination. Once stratified, sow the seeds in well-draining soil, and cover with 1/4 inch of soil. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the seeds should germinate in 30-60 days. Once the seedlings are at least 2 inches tall, transplant them to their permanent location in full sun.Watering Needs
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. is drought-tolerant, but it still needs consistent moisture to thrive. Water deeply once or twice a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Avoid getting the leaves wet when watering to prevent disease.Fertilization
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. does not require much fertilizer. In fact, too much nitrogen can cause the tree to produce weak growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the early spring before new growth emerges. Use a slow-release fertilizer and apply it according to the package directions.Pruning
Prune Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased branches. You can also prune to shape the tree by removing branches that cross or grow in the wrong direction. It is better to prune lightly and frequently than to remove large branches all at once.Propagation of Crataegus latebrosa Sarg.
Propagation is the process of growing new plants from seeds, cuttings, or grafts. Crataegus latebrosa Sarg., commonly known as the Parsley-leaved Hawthorn, can be propagated by several methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds from the Parsley-leaved Hawthorn can be collected in the fall when the fruit has ripened and fallen from the tree. The fruits should be washed, and the seeds should be separated from the pulp. The seeds can be directly sown in a prepared bed in the fall or stratified in the refrigerator for about 90 days before planting. Germination can take up to two years, and seedlings should be transplanted when they are about a year old.
Cuttings propagation
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. can also be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in early summer when the new growth is still tender and glistening. Hardwood cuttings should be taken in late fall or early winter when the tree is dormant. Cuttings should be about 6-8 inches long with at least three nodes. The leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting, and rooting hormone can be applied to the cut end. Cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soilless mix and kept moist in a warm, bright location. Rooting should occur in about 8-12 weeks.
Grafts propagation
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. can also be propagated through grafting. Grafting involves taking a cutting from the desired cultivar, called the scion, and attaching it to a rootstock of the same genus. The scion and the rootstock are joined together and held in place until they grow together. Grafting should be done in early spring when the plant is actively growing.
Disease Management
Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. or the Kansas hawthorn is generally a healthy plant that tolerates a range of soil and climatic conditions. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases caused by fungal, bacterial, or viral pathogens. Some of the common diseases that might affect this species include:
- Fire blight: caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora, this disease affects the flowers, leaves, and twigs of the plant and causes them to wilt and turn black. It can be managed through pruning infected parts and applying copper sprays during the dormant season.
- Cedar-apple rust: caused by the fungus Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae, this disease affects the leaves, fruit, and twigs of the plant and causes circular, yellowish-orange spots that later turn brown. It can be managed through removing nearby juniper trees and applying fungicides during the growing season.
- Powdery mildew: caused by the fungus Podosphaera clandestina, this disease affects the leaves, flowers, and fruit of the plant and causes a powdery, whitish-gray coating. It can be managed through improving air circulation, reducing humidity, and applying fungicides during the growing season.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. can also be affected by various pests that can damage its leaves, stems, flowers, and fruit. Some of the common pests that might affect this species include:
- Japanese beetles: these insects feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant and can cause severe defoliation. They can be managed through handpicking, applying insecticides, or using pheromone traps.
- Scale insects: these insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. They can be managed through pruning infested parts and applying horticultural oil during the dormant season.
- Aphids: these insects also feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distortion and curling of leaves. They can be managed through spraying with water, removing infested parts, or applying insecticidal soap.
Regular monitoring, good cultural practices, and timely intervention can help prevent and manage diseases and pests in Crataegus latebrosa Sarg. and ensure its health and vigor.
