Overview:
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. is a species in the Rosaceae family. It is also known by its common names: big thorn hawthorn, large thorn hawthorn, and Loddiges' hawthorn. The plant is native to Southeast Asia and China, and has been widely introduced to other regions for decorative purposes.
Appearance:
The plant is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 15-20 feet high with a spread of 15-20 feet. It has an oval-rounded canopy and an irregular habit. The branches are thorny and the leaves are lobed and toothed. The flowers are white, pink, or red and appear in clusters in the spring. The fruit is a red or dark red pome that matures in the fall.
Uses:
The plant has ornamental and medicinal uses. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. The plant is also rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and dysentery.
Light Requirements
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. It is not shade tolerant and must be planted in areas that receive direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. Inadequate sunlight can result in stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grows best in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. In general, it prefers temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) but can survive temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C). Frost can damage the flowers and fruits, so it is advisable to protect the plant during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
The soil should be well-draining, fertile and moderately moist. Crataegus macracantha Lodd. can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy loam, and clay loam. However, it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The plant can tolerate occasional dry soil conditions but does not grow well in waterlogged or poorly drained soils.
Cultivation Methods of Crataegus macracantha Lodd.
Crataegus macracantha Lodd., or commonly known as big thorn hawthorn, is a hardy shrub that grows well in temperate regions. It prefers well-drained soils with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5 and tolerates both full sun and light shade. When planting, ensure the roots are well-covered but avoid burying the stem. Mulching around the plant can help to conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.
Watering Needs of Crataegus macracantha Lodd.
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. requires moderate watering. It is ideal to water the plant once a week but adjust the frequency depending on the weather. During the dry season or hot days, water more frequently to keep the soil moist. Ensure that watering is done at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the leaves and stem as it can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization of Crataegus macracantha Lodd.
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. responds well to fertilization, especially during the growing season. Using a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can help to improve plant growth. Fertilize the plant every six to eight weeks, but avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to salt build-up and root damage.
Pruning of Crataegus macracantha Lodd.
Pruning is an important aspect of Crataegus macracantha Lodd. care. It is best to prune during the dormant season, but light pruning can be done at any time. Remove any dead or diseased wood as soon as possible to prevent the spread of diseases. Thin out any crossing branches to improve air circulation, and prune back the tips of young shoots to encourage bushier growth. Avoid pruning more than a third of the plant in any one season as it can weaken the plant and affect flowering.
Propagation of Crataegus macracantha Lodd.
Crataegus macracantha Lodd., commonly known as the Big Thorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to North America. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks, due to its attractive white flowers and red fruits. In order to propagate this plant, there are several methods that can be used.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common methods of propagating Crataegus macracantha is through seed propagation. The seeds of the plant can be harvested in the fall when the fruits are ripe. Clean the seeds from the fruits and store them in a cool, dry place until the spring. Once the weather warms up, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, making sure they are not planted too deeply. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a warm temperature until the seeds germinate.
Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagating Crataegus macracantha is through cutting propagation. Take a 6- to 8-inch cutting from a healthy branch in the summer. Remove the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the cutting, then dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it consistently moist. Place the cutting in bright, indirect light and maintain a warm temperature until it establishes roots.
Grafting
Grafting is a more advanced method of propagating Crataegus macracantha, but it can yield faster results. To graft the plant, select a healthy rootstock and a scionwood. The rootstock can be a seed-grown Crataegus macracantha or another species of Crataegus that is compatible with the scionwood. The scionwood should be a healthy cutting from a desired plant. Make a slant cut on both the rootstock and scionwood, then secure them together with grafting tape. Keep the grafted plant in a warm, shaded location and maintain consistent moisture. After several months, the grafted plant should establish a strong root system.
Disease Management of Crataegus macracantha Lodd.
Crataegus macracantha Lodd. does not suffer from severe disease problems. However, two fungal diseases that might affect these plants are:
- Cedar-Hawthorn Rust: Cedar-Hawthorn Rust creates small yellow spots on leaves, which eventually turn red and fall off. Rusty spots can also appear on the plant's stems and fruits. The fungus primarily affects apple and pear trees, but it can infect hawthorns as well. Pruning infected stem areas and improving ventilation by removing weeds and nearby plants can assist in keeping this fungus at bay. Further, ensuring good hygiene by cutting and discarding affected branches and fruits can prevent fungal spores from spreading.
- Fire Blight: Fire blight is another bacterial disease that damages Crataegus macracantha Lodd. Leaving a dark brown spot on the fruit and stem of the plant. Removing the infected areas of the plant or keeping the plant regularly pruned back to avoid plant overcrowding can prevent the spread of this disease.
Pest Management of Crataegus macracantha Lodd.
Several pests can attack Crataegus macracantha Lodd. Among these, the most common pests to watch for are:
- Mites: Several spider mites can infest hawthorn plants, causing the foliage to turn yellow and fall off. To avoid spider mite infestations, ensure optimum irrigation and the right level of humidity. Additionally, spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soaps is an excellent way to counter mite infestation.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects live under a cotton-like covering on the plant's stems and leaves, causing foliage to turn yellow and stunt plant growth. Targeting scale insects early, by regularly cleaning the plant leaves with a solution of insecticidal soap mixed with water, can avoid massive amounts of scale insects from overwhelming the plant.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars, such as Tent Caterpillars, can cause substantial damages to the hawthorn plant. Use of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), insecticidal soaps, or neem oil can sufficiently manage this pest.
