Overview of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest. is a species of hawthorn plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is also commonly known as large-fruited hawthorn, bigfruit hawthorn, or big-seeded hawthorn. The plant is native to southeastern Canada and the eastern United States, particularly in the states of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Appearance of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest. is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. The plant has a broad and rounded crown with numerous thorny branches. Its leaves are simple, serrated, and have a glossy dark green color on the upper surface, and a lighter green underneath. The flowers are white, arranged in clusters, and bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruit of the plant is a large, red or orange pome, which can measure up to 2cm in diameter.
Uses of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest.
The hawthorn plant has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, such as treating cardiovascular diseases, digestive problems, anxiety, and skin issues. The fruit of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest. is edible and is commonly used in making jellies, jams, and wine. The plant also provides a habitat for various birds and insects, making it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes.
Growth Conditions for Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest.
Light: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. However, it prefers full sun exposure to promote healthy fruiting and flowering. Therefore, it should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature: Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest. is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures. It can endure temperatures as low as -20°F (-28°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C). However, it prefers moderate temperatures of about 60°F to 70°F (15.5°C to 21°C) for optimal growth and fruit production.
Soil Requirements: This plant thrives in well-draining loamy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5 to 7.2). It can also tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. However, it does not grow well in waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and other diseases. Therefore, the soil should be well-draining to allow for adequate aeration and moisture for the plant.
Irrigation: Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest. requires moderate watering during the growing season. This means that the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases, while under-watering can cause wilting and poor fruit production. Therefore, it is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.
Fertilization: This plant is not picky when it comes to fertilization. However, it can benefit from regular applications of a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 blend. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, preferably in early spring before new growth appears. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and poor fruit production.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest., commonly known as bigfruit hawthorn, can be grown successfully in a variety of soils and exposure conditions. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure. When planting, make sure to provide adequate space between each plant, around 20 feet apart, to allow for mature growth.
Watering Needs
During the first year after planting, bigfruit hawthorn should be watered regularly to establish the roots. After that, they are relatively drought-tolerant and usually do not require extensive watering. However, during extended periods of hot, dry weather, it may be necessary to water weekly to keep the soil moist.
Fertilization
In general, bigfruit hawthorn does not require heavy fertilization. If you want to encourage growth and fruit production, it's best to apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced fruit production.
Pruning
To keep bigfruit hawthorn healthy and productive, pruning should be done regularly. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, as well as any crossing branches. To promote fruit production, thin out the center of the tree to allow for better air circulation and sunlight penetration. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stimulate excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
Propagation of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest., commonly known as the bigfruit hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that grows best in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. The plant is indigenous to North America and is widely used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Propagation of the bigfruit hawthorn can be achieved through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating the bigfruit hawthorn. Collect the seeds in the fall or winter, and store them in a cool and dry place until the spring when they can be sown in a well-drained, fertile soil. The seeds require exposure to cold stratification for a few months before germinating. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water them thoroughly. The germination rate is usually low, so many seeds should be planted to increase the chances of success.
Cuttings Propagation
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra can also be propagated through hardwood cuttings. Collect the cuttings in the late fall, and ensure that they are free from diseases and pests. Cut the stems into sections of about 8 inches long and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-drained compost or sand, and keep them moist but not waterlogged. Cover the cuttings with plastic to maintain the humidity, and keep them in a shaded area. The cuttings should develop roots in about six months.
Division Propagation
The bigfruit hawthorn can also be propagated through division. This method can be used to propagate mature plants that have become too large. Divide the shrub in the early spring before the new growth appears. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root system into smaller sections. Replant the sections in a well-drained soil and water them thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest., commonly known as the bigfruit hawthorn, is a hardy plant that is native to eastern and central North America. However, the plant is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity. Below are some of the common issues that may affect the plant and their management.
Diseases
Fire Blight: The bacterium Erwinia amylovora causes fire blight, which can affect hawthorns during periods of high humidity and warm temperatures. The plant may show a sudden wilting of its flowers, leaves, or branches. To manage this disease, prune the affected parts of the plant and avoid excess nitrogen fertilization during the growing season.
Cedar-Apple Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow spots on the leaves of the hawthorn, which eventually turns black. The plant may also exhibit misshapen or stunted leaves. The best way to manage this disease is to remove infected leaves and other plant debris from the surrounding area and practice good sanitation practices in the garden.
Leaf Spots: Several fungi may cause leaf spots in hawthorns, affecting the plant's overall health. Affected leaves may wilt and drop prematurely. To manage leaf spots, prune off affected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, leaving leaves curled and distorted. They can also spread plant viruses. To control aphids, try washing them off with a strong spray of water or applying insecticidal soap.
Mites: Spider mites can cause leaves to yellow and fall prematurely. They are tiny reddish-brown insects that are barely visible to the naked eye. To control spider mites, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap.
In conclusion, regular monitoring of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. pentandra (Sarg.) Egglest. for diseases and pests is critical to its health and productivity. Timely management can prevent the spread of infections, as well as keep insects at bay and extend the life of the plant.
