Overview of Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest.
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest. is a species of hawthorn that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The plant is commonly known as the western thornapple and is native to North America, specifically in the western United States and Canada.
Appearance of Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest.
The plant has a tree-like growth habit and can reach a height of up to 20 feet. It has a grayish-brown bark and spiny branches. The leaves of the western thornapple are deciduous, simple, and deeply lobed. They are bright green in color and can grow up to 3 inches long. During the spring and summer, the plant produces small, white or pink flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers give way to small, reddish-brown fruit that resembles miniature apples.
Uses of Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest.
The western thornapple has been used for both medicinal and culinary purposes. The fruit of the plant is high in vitamin C and can be consumed raw or cooked. The fruit can also be used to make jams, jellies, and pies. Additionally, the plant has been traditionally used to treat a variety of medical issues such as heart problems, indigestion, and respiratory ailments. The bark and leaves of the plant have also been used as a natural dye.
In recent years, the plant has been cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes. Its striking appearance, showy flowers, and attractive fruit make it a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers alike.
Light Requirements
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest. requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended. Shaded areas may not promote healthy growth, leading to weak branches and reduced fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is well-adapted to temperate climates and is drought tolerant. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 10°C to 25°C. Lower temperatures may induce dormancy in the winter season. Increased temperatures may require additional water application to maintain soil moisture and prevent heat damage to the roots.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest. prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil must be rich in organic matter and nutrients, which can be achieved with the addition of organic fertilizers. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy soils. However, poorly drained soils or those with high clay content should be avoided to prevent root rot and stunted growth.
Cultivation Methods:
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest., commonly known as Western thorn, is a shrub that is native to North America. It is relatively easy to cultivate, and it thrives in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade. The ideal planting time is in the spring when the temperature starts to warm up.
Watering Needs:
It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during the hot and dry summer months. The frequency of watering will depend on the soil type and the location of the plant. In general, the plant should be watered deeply once a week, but this may need to be increased in areas with sandy soils and high temperatures. Care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can be detrimental to its growth.
Fertilization:
Western thorn does not require a lot of fertilizer to grow and thrive. However, it can benefit from an application of fertilizer in the early spring, just before new growth appears. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive plant growth, which may leave the plant susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning:
Pruning is an important part of caring for Western thorn. The plant should be pruned regularly to remove any dead or diseased branches and to promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts, and avoid leaving stubs, as they can attract pests and diseases.
Propagation of Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest.
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest., commonly known as western thornapple or hawthorn, can be propagated through several methods:
Seed Propagation
C. macracantha can be propagated from seeds collected from mature fruits during the fall. Stratify the collected seeds by placing them in a moist medium, like sand or peat, inside a refrigerator for two to three months. After cold stratification, the seeds can be sown in potting soil and kept in a warm, humid location until they sprout. Transplant the seedlings into individual containers until they are mature enough for planting in their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Softwood, semi-hardwood, and hardwood cuttings can be collected in the summer, fall, and winter, respectively. Choose healthy stems, cut them at an angle, and make sure each cutting has at least two to three nodes. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and place it in a potting medium. Keep the rooting medium moist and the cuttings in a warm, humid location. Once roots have developed, transplant the new plant into an individual container until it's mature enough for planting in its permanent location.
Division Propagation
You can propagate C. macracantha by dividing the root mass of an established plant. In the early spring, dig up the plant, separate the stems, and roots with a sharp knife, and plant each division in a separate pot. Keep the new plants in a warm, moist, location until they become established and mature enough for planting in their permanent location.
Disease Management
The Crataegus macracantha Lodd. var. occidentalis (Britt.) Egglest., or commonly known as western thorny hawthorn, is susceptible to various diseases. Below are some of the common diseases that may affect the plant and suggested ways to manage them:
Fire Blight
Fire blight is a bacterial disease that causes discoloration, wilting, and cankers in plants. It can be managed by pruning the infected branches at least 12 inches below the infected area, disinfecting the pruning tools, and removing the infected parts from the garden area to prevent the spread of the disease.
Cedar-Apple Rust
Cedar-apple rust is a fungal disease that affects the plant's leaves, causing yellow spots and defoliation. It can be managed by removing the infected parts and applying a fungicide to the plant every 7 to 10 days until the problem is resolved.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a grayish-white powdery coating on leaves and shoots. That can be managed by pruning the infected parts, removing the fallen leaves, and applying a fungicide regularly.
Pest Management
Western thorny hawthorn is also vulnerable to pests. Below are some common pests that may attack the plant and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause the plant to look yellow and have a stippled appearance. They can be managed by introducing natural predators like ladybugs and pruning the infected parts. Applying a miticide can also be helpful.
Aphids
Aphids are small pests that can cause leaf curling and yellowing. It can be managed by regularly removing the insects using a strong jet of water. Additionally, introducing natural predators like ladybugs to the area can be helpful.
Scale Insects
Scale insects can cause yellow spots on leaves and stems. They can be managed by pruning the infested parts and applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the plant.
