Overview
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest., commonly known as the Large-Fruited Hawthorn, is a variety of the Eastern hawthorn tree. It is native to North America, particularly in the eastern part of the United States.
Appearance
The Large-Fruited Hawthorn tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall and 25 feet wide. It has a rounded form and a dense thicket of branches that are armed with sharp thorns. The leaves are a glossy dark green, and they are deeply lobed with serrated edges. The tree produces clusters of fragrant white or pink flowers in the springtime, which are followed by large, bright red fruits that are typically about an inch in diameter.
Uses
The Large-Fruited Hawthorn tree has a long history of use by indigenous peoples and herbalists for medicinal purposes. The leaves, flowers, and fruits of the tree contain a variety of phytochemicals that are believed to have cardiovascular benefits, including reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, the fruit is edible and can be used in jams, jellies, and other culinary applications. The tree is also commonly used in landscaping due to its attractive form and seasonal interest.
Common Names
Some common names for Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. include Large-Fruited Hawthorn, Bigfruit Hawthorn, and Sharp-Lobed Hawthorn.
Growth Conditions of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest.
Light: Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. requires a full sun to partial shade environment for optimal growth. It performs well in areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In partial shade environments, it may grow slower and produce fewer flowers and fruits than in full sun.
Temperature: This plant species is native to eastern North America and can tolerate a range of temperatures from -30°F to 110°F. It prefers a cool to moderate climate and can withstand mild frost and snow. However, extreme heat or cold can adversely affect its growth and survival.
Soil requirements: Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. can grow in various soil types, but it prefers well-drained, moist, and fertile soil. It can tolerate acidic to slightly alkaline soils, but it grows best in soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and regular fertilization can help maintain its health and vigor.
Overall, Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. is a hardy plant that can adapt to different growing conditions. However, providing it with the optimal light, temperature, and soil conditions can help promote its growth, yield, and overall health.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 12 feet in height. It is best grown in full sun to partial shade and in a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant is hardy from USDA zones 4 to 9 and needs a cold period to break dormancy.
Watering Needs
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. is a drought-tolerant plant, but it needs regular watering during its establishment period. Once established, it can survive with minimal watering. However, during periods of prolonged drought, give it a deep watering to ensure that the roots have access to moisture.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest., but if you want to promote growth, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the early spring. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the fall, as this can encourage late-season growth, which may not harden off before the winter.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. to maintain its shape and promote new growth. Prune the shrub during the dormant season, which is usually in late winter or early spring. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased wood first, then focus on shaping the plant. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts, and avoid leaving stubs, which can invite disease and pests.
Propagation of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest.
There are various ways to propagate Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. Some of the common propagation methods are:
Seeds
Propagation of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. can be done through seeds. Seeds should be collected from mature fruits by harvesting them in the fall. Cold stratification is required to break seed dormancy before planting. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and should be lightly covered with soil.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings can also be done, including softwood cuttings, semi-hardwood cuttings, and hardwood cuttings. Cuttings can be taken during the growing season, and rooting hormone can be applied to increase the success rate of rooting. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist.
Grafting
Grafting is another propagation method used for Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. A scion from the desired plant can be grafted onto a rootstock of a different variety. Grafting can be done when the plant is dormant in late winter or early spring. This method can be more challenging, but it allows for the propagation of plants that cannot be propagated through cuttings or seeds.
Disease Management
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The most common diseases that affect the plant are:
- Cedar apple rust
- Fabraea leaf spot
- Fire blight
To manage these diseases, the following measures can be taken:
- Keep proper sanitation practices, such as removing infected leaves and pruning dead branches regularly.
- Apply fungicides during the spring and fall to control cedar apple rust and Fabraea leaf spot.
- Use copper-based bactericides during the bloom stage to control fire blight.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. acutiloba (Sarg.) Egglest. and cause damage. The most common pests that affect the plant are:
- Apple maggot
- Japanese beetles
- Tent caterpillars
To manage these pests, the following measures can be taken:
- Use insecticides to control apple maggots and Japanese beetles.
- Prune the affected branches and remove the tents to control tent caterpillars.
- Use pheromone traps to attract and trap male apple maggot flies.
