Overview
Crataegus nananixonii Phipps & R. O'Kennon, commonly known as Nana's Hawthorn, is a small shrubby plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is endemic to the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, United States. The plant is named in honor of former Missouri Botanical Garden horticulturist and field botanist, Richard Nixon.
Appearance
Nana's Hawthorn is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 6 feet tall. The plant has a compact form with a dense branching structure. The leaves of the plant are small, glossy, and have a deep green color. The flowers of the plant are white or pink and are borne in clusters. The plant produces red or yellow fruits that are about 0.4 inches in diameter.
Uses
The fruits of Nana's Hawthorn are edible and are used to make jams, jellies, and sauces. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits. The plant is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and is said to be effective in treating heart and circulatory system disorders.
Nana's Hawthorn is also a popular landscaping plant and is often used in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant. The plant's compact form and dense foliage make it an attractive option for low hedges, borders, and as a foundation plant. The plant's small size and slow-growing nature also make it suitable for small gardens and container plantings.
Light Requirement
Crataegus nananixonii requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can withstand direct sunlight exposure for a few hours but may experience leaf scorch if exposed for extended periods. In areas with hot summers, partial shade is recommended to protect the plant from excessive heat stress.
Temperature Requirement
The ideal temperature range for Crataegus nananixonii growth is between 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82.4°F). It can tolerate occasional fluctuations outside this range, but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may affect growth and development. This plant is winter hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures as low as -30°C (-22°F).
Soil Requirement
The soil for Crataegus nananixonii should be well-draining, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soils, including sandy and clay soils. However, the soil must have good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. The addition of organic matter to the soil can help improve fertility and water retention.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus nananixonii Phipps & R. O'Kennon can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or grafts. However, grafting is the most preferred method as it improves the plant's hardiness and disease resistance. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and should be planted in an open space with good air circulation.
Watering Needs
Crataegus nananixonii Phipps & R. O'Kennon has moderate water requirements and should be watered regularly, especially during the summer months when it's hot and dry. However, the plant does not tolerate waterlogging, so ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. A layer of mulch around the plant can help retain moisture and protect the roots from extreme temperatures.
Fertilization
Crataegus nananixonii Phipps & R. O'Kennon requires a balanced slow-release fertilizer during the growing season, which should be applied once or twice a year. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth.
Pruning
Crataegus nananixonii Phipps & R. O'Kennon requires minimal pruning, but it's necessary to remove any damaged or diseased branches as soon as they're noticed. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant season, which falls between late fall and early spring.
Propagation of Crataegus nananixonii Phipps & R. O'Kennon
Crataegus nananixonii Phipps & R. O'Kennon, commonly known as the Nan Nixon hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that can be propagated by various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Crataegus nananixonii is through seeds. The seeds can be obtained from the ripe fruit of the plant. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a container that is at least 2-3 inches deep. The container should be kept in a warm and bright location and the soil should be kept consistently moist. Germination can take anywhere from several weeks to several months. Once the seedlings have grown to a usable size, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are another method of propagating Crataegus nananixonii. Hardwood cuttings are taken during the dormant season and should be at least 6 inches long. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should include at least two nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The container should be kept in a cool, bright location and misted regularly. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a more advanced method of propagating Crataegus nananixonii and requires specialized skills. This method involves taking a cutting from a desired cultivar and grafting it onto a compatible rootstock. The graft union should be kept moist and protected until the graft has taken hold. Once the graft has taken hold, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Like any other plant species, Crataegus nananixonii is susceptible to various diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease is characterized by spots on the leaves that may be yellow or dark-colored. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and ensure that you water the plant from the base to prevent splashing water on the leaves.
- Fire blight: Fire blight affects the shoots and branches of the plant. It causes them to turn black and wither. To manage this disease, prune infected parts of the plant and burn them to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Rust: Rust disease causes round yellow spots on the leaves. These spots later develop into orange spores. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, and use a fungicide spray to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pest Management
Just like diseases, pests can also be a problem for Crataegus nananixonii. The most common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves. They can cause stunted growth and deformed leaves. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil spray, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Caterpillar: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths. They can cause significant damage to the plant by eating the leaves. To manage caterpillars, pick them by hand or use a biological insecticide like Bacillus thuringiensis.
- Scale insects: Scale insects look like bumps on the surface of the leaves and stems. They suck sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become susceptible to diseases. To manage scale insects, use a horticultural oil spray or introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps.
By effectively managing diseases and pests, you can ensure that your Crataegus nananixonii plant remains healthy and vibrant.
