Overview
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer is a plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as the Appalachian hawthorn and can be found in the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States.
Appearance
The Appalachian hawthorn is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has a rounded shape, with dense branches and thorny twigs. The leaves are glossy and dark green, with serrated edges, and can range from 2 to 3 inches long. The flowers are white and bloom in early summer, while the fruits are bright red and ripen in the fall.
Uses
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer is known to have medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used to treat heart and digestive problems, as well as high blood pressure and anxiety. It has also been used for its astringent properties to help with sore throats and hemorrhoids.
The fruits of the Appalachian hawthorn are edible and can be used to make jellies, jams, and syrups. The plant is also used as an ornamental shrub, particularly in landscaping and as a hedge plant.
Cultivation
The Appalachian hawthorn is a hardy plant that prefers moist, well-draining soils and partial to full sun exposure. It is adaptable to a range of soil types and pH levels. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings, and requires minimal pruning.
While the Appalachian hawthorn is generally pest and disease resistant, it may be susceptible to rust, leaf spot, and fire blight. It is important to monitor the plant for any signs of disease and promptly treat it if necessary.
Light Requirements
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer requires full to partial sun exposure to grow optimally. In its natural habitat, it grows under full sun exposure. However, it can also tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits under such conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species grows best in temperate climates. It can tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions, ranging from -34 °C to 43 °C. The plant can withstand frost and even snow, but it may not tolerate heatwaves and drought conditions in summers.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer prefers well-drained soils with adequate moisture. Loamy or sandy soils with a neutral pH are ideal for its growth. The plant can also grow in slightly alkaline or acidic soils but may require soil amendments to adjust the pH accordingly. It can tolerate poor soils, but it may not grow well in compacted or water-logged soils.
Cultivation
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as the Washington hawthorn is a small tree in the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and can be grown in USDA zones 5 to 8. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil.
When planting the tree, dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Mix some compost or aged manure with the backfill soil. Plant the tree so that the root flare is at or slightly above soil level.
Watering Needs
The Washington hawthorn needs regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and cannot tolerate soggy or waterlogged conditions. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and check the soil moisture level regularly to prevent overwatering or underwatering.
Fertilization
The Washington hawthorn does not require regular fertilization if planted in nutrient-rich soil. However, if the tree is growing in poor soil, you can add a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears. Avoid fertilizing the tree after mid-summer as it can stimulate late-season growth that may not harden off in time for winter.
Pruning
The Washington hawthorn requires minimal pruning as it naturally grows into a uniform, spreading shape. However, you may need to remove dead or diseased branches in early spring before new growth appears. You can also prune the tree lightly to shape it or remove wayward branches, taking care not to remove more than a third of the tree's canopy in one season.
Propagation of Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer
There are several methods for propagating Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer, including:
1. Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating plants in the hawthorn genus is from seed. Hawthorn seeds require a period of chilling before they can germinate, so it's best to plant them in the fall, allowing them to overwinter outdoors. In the spring, they will naturally germinate as temperatures warm up.
2. Grafting Propagation
Grafting is also a common propagation method for hawthorns. Typically, the scion wood is taken from a mature plant—ideally one that is known to produce quality fruit—and grafted onto a younger rootstock. This method allows for predictable fruiting and can also help improve disease resistance.
3. Softwood Cutting Propagation
Softwood cuttings taken from young hawthorn shoots in late spring or early summer can also be used to propagate plants. These cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and placed in a rooting hormone. Then, they can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept evenly moist for several months until they have taken root.
4. Hardwood Cutting Propagation
Hardwood cuttings are taken in the late fall or early winter when the plant is dormant. Long stems with hardwood from the previous growth season are cut, and the lower end of the stem is treated with rooting hormone before planting. These cuttings are then buried entirely with only the top buds above ground. The buried stem eventually develops roots and new shoots, which can be transplanted after a few growing seasons.
Disease Management
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer can be susceptible to certain diseases, including:
- Cedar Apple Rust: This disease causes yellow spots on the foliage, which eventually turn rusty brown. Control can be achieved by pruning the affected parts of the plant and removing fallen leaves to reduce the spread of spores.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal infection causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Spray fungicide to control and reduce the spread of spores.
- Fire Blight: This bacterial infection causes scorched-looking leaves and wilted branches. Pruning and destroying the affected parts of the plant is the best control method.
Pest Management
Several pests can be a problem for Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. assurgens (Sarg.) Palmer, including:
- Apple Maggot: This pest can cause severe damage to the fruit. Use sticky traps and insecticides to control.
- Japanese Beetle: This pest eats the leaves and flowers. Handpick and destroy the beetles or use insecticides.
- Leafhoppers: These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing distorted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control.
