Description
Crataegus nitida (Engelm.) Sarg. is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as shining hawthorn due to its shiny leaves, and its scientific name is a combination of the Latin words "crataegus" meaning "thornbush" and "nitida" meaning "shiny."
Origin
The plant is native to the central and eastern regions of North America, from Ontario to Texas. It is commonly found in woodlands, thickets, or along streams and rivers.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used by indigenous peoples for various medicinal purposes, including the treatment of heart diseases, digestive problems, and as a sedative. The fruits of the plant were also used as a food source by Native Americans, who consumed them fresh or dried them for later use.
In modern times, Crataegus nitida is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, where it is valued for its attractive flowers and shiny foliage.
General Appearance
Crataegus nitida grows up to a height of 10-25 feet and a width of 10-20 feet. It has a rounded shape with an irregular or spreading crown. The bark of the tree is greyish-brown and has shallow furrows and scales. The leaves are alternate, simple, ovate to elliptic, and have a glossy surface that is dark green above and lighter green beneath. The flowers are white, and they form large clusters that bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruits are small, red, and have a sour taste.
Light Requirements
Crataegus nitida requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and survival. Shaded areas may result in slower growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a wide range of temperatures, being able to tolerate hot and dry summers as well as cold winters. However, young plants are more susceptible to frost damage.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus nitida prefers well-draining and fertile soils. It can tolerate a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5. It is recommended to incorporate organic matter into the planting hole to improve soil structure and nutrient availability.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus nitida, commonly known as the shining hawthorn, is a small tree or shrub that grows well in a variety of soil types. Plant the hawthorn in an area of full sun or light shade, with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be spaced at least 6 feet apart to give it room to grow.
When planting seedlings, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to hold the plant with its crown level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to remove any air pockets around the roots. Newly planted seedlings will require regular watering until the roots have established.
Watering Needs
Once established, Crataegus nitida is a drought-tolerant plant, but it will benefit from regular watering during periods of extended dry weather. Water the hawthorn deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Crataegus nitida does not require excessive fertilization, but you can give it a boost in the growing season with a well-balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually either in spring or summer. Avoid fertilizing in late fall or early winter, as this can stimulate new growth that may be vulnerable to frost damage.
Pruning
Prune Crataegus nitida during the dormant season, either in late fall or early spring. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, cutting back to healthy growth. You can also prune for shape and to encourage denser growth by selectively removing branches. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the tree or spreading disease.
Propagation of Crataegus nitida
Crataegus nitida, commonly known as the shiny hawthorn or the Tennessee hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree or shrub native to the southeastern part of the United States. It is often used in ornamental settings due to its striking white flowers and dark green foliage. The plant can be propagated by several methods, as described below:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Crataegus nitida is through seed propagation. This is a relatively simple process that involves collecting ripe fruit from the tree, removing the seeds, and planting them in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be planted in the fall, as they require a period of cold stratification to germinate. Once planted, the soil should be kept consistently moist and warm until the seeds germinate, which typically takes two to three months. Seed-grown plants may take several years to reach maturity.
Cuttings Propagation
Another propagation method for Crataegus nitida is through hardwood cuttings. This involves taking cuttings from the tree during the winter dormancy period, when the plant is not actively growing. The cuttings should be roughly pencil-thick and about six inches long, and should be taken from the previous year's growth. The bottom end of each cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone, then planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept consistently moist and covered with a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity. Roots should begin to form in about two months, after which the plants can be potted up or transplanted into the garden.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another method used for propagating Crataegus nitida. This involves taking a scion, or a small twig, from the desired tree and attaching it to a rootstock of a related species. The scion should be taken during the winter dormancy period and should be about the size of a pencil. The rootstock should be chosen for its disease resistance and vigor, and should be roughly the same diameter as the scion. The two pieces should be joined together by making a slanted cut in each and pressing them together. The graft should be covered with grafting tape or wax to protect the joint and prevent moisture loss. Grafted plants will typically bear fruit within two to three years.
Disease Management
Crataegus nitida is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Fire Blight: This disease causes wilting of individual branches or the entire plant and blackening of leaves and twigs. To manage fire blight, prune infected branches at least 6 inches below the visible symptoms.
- Cedar-Apple Rust: The disease appears as orange spots on the leaves, which eventually turn black, shrivel, and fall off. To manage cedar-apple rust, plant resistant varieties, remove any juniper or cedar trees nearby, and apply copper fungicide.
- Leaf Spots: Several fungi cause this disease, which appears as small, dark spots on the leaves and can cause defoliation in severe cases. To manage leaf spots, remove infected leaves and provide adequate air circulation to the plant.
Pest Management
Crataegus nitida is also susceptible to several pests, including:
- Apple Maggot: The adult fly lays eggs on the fruit, which hatch into maggots that feed on the flesh and cause the fruit to rot. To manage apple maggot, use sticky traps and insecticides.
- Tent Caterpillars: These caterpillars form silken tents in the branches and feed on the leaves. To manage tent caterpillars, prune and destroy the tents and apply insecticides.
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the plant sap, causing curling and distortion of leaves. To manage aphids, blast them off with water or use insecticidal soap.
