Overview
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke is a plant species belonging to the Crataegus genus and the Rosaceae family. Also known as Ashe's hawthorn, it is a deciduous shrub or a small tree known for its numerous medicinal properties and ornamental value.
Origin
Ashe's hawthorn is native to the eastern United States, and it primarily grows in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and North Carolina. It prefers moist, well-drained soils, and can often be found in forests, fields, and along stream banks.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 12 feet in height and width and features a dense, rounded crown. The bark is gray and smooth, and the leaves are simple, lobed, and alternately arranged on twigs. The flowers are white, pink, or red, fragrant, and blooming in May and June. The fruit is a dark red pome, usually one or two per stem, and ripening in late summer or early fall.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names, including Ashe's hawthorn, grayleaf hawthorn, western thorn, and caesa hawthorn.
Uses
Ashe's hawthorn has numerous medicinal uses, and the Native Americans used it to treat heart conditions, digestive disorders, and infection. It is also a popular ornamental plant, and many landscapers use it for its attractive foliage, fruit, and flowers. The fruit is edible and is often used to make jam, jelly, and wine. Wildlife also feeds on the fruit, making it an excellent addition to the native habitat.
Overall, Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke is a versatile and useful plant that is valued for its medicinal properties, aesthetic appeal, and ecological benefits.Light Requirements
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke prefers full sun exposure for maximum growth and fruit production. It can tolerate partial shade, but prolonged periods of shade can result in stunted growth and reduced fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species prefers temperate climates with mild to cool temperatures. The ideal range of temperature for growth lies between 18°C to 25°C. Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke is quite tolerant of low temperatures and can survive temperatures below 0°C during winter dormancy. However, high temperatures above 30°C can negatively affect the growth and fruiting of this species.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 5.5 to 6.5. This species can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
However, it performs best in fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. It is advisable to amend the soil with organic compost before planting to improve soil fertility and water retention capacity. Inadequate soil fertility can result in stunted growth, reduced fruit quality, and increased susceptibility to pest and disease attacks.
Cultivation
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate partial shade, but it is necessary to ensure good air circulation around the plant to avoid disease problems.
This plant can be grown by seeds, cutting, or grafting. To grow from seeds, stratify the seeds by placing them in the refrigerator for 90 days before sowing in the spring. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and can be rooted in a mixture of sand and peat moss. Grafting is a more complicated process and should be done by an experienced grower.
Watering Needs
The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Proper drainage is crucial to avoid root rot and other water-related issues. It is best to water the plant early in the day to allow excess moisture to evaporate before lower temperatures set in.
Fertilization
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke does not require excessive fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring, and another application in early summer should be sufficient. It is essential not to over-fertilize, as this can cause growth problems and reduce flower production.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary unless the plant becomes too dense or damaged. Diseased or damaged branches should be pruned immediately and removed from the planting area to avoid spreading the disease. Any pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth occurs. It is best to avoid trimming the branches for shaping as this can reduce the flowering potential of the plant.
Propagation of Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke, commonly known as Ashe's hawthorn, can be propagated through various methods:
Seed Propagation
Ashe's hawthorn produces small, hard seeds that require stratification to break dormancy. Seeds can be sown in fall in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of sand. Alternatively, they can also be stratified in the refrigerator for 90-120 days to simulate winter conditions.
Once the seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they reach a suitable size for outdoor planting.
Cuttings Propagation
Ashe's hawthorn can also be propagated through hardwood cuttings taken in late fall or early winter. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free branches and should be at least 8 inches long with several nodes.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. The pot should be covered with plastic sheeting to create a greenhouse effect, which helps to retain moisture and warmth.
Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they reach a suitable size for outdoor planting.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another propagation method used for Ashe's hawthorn. It involves joining a cutting or scion from the desired plant onto a rootstock of a related plant, such as Crataegus monogyna.
Grafting should be done in late winter or early spring, when the rootstock is still dormant. The scion should be harvested from a mature plant and should have at least two buds. It should be joined to the rootstock using a whip graft or cleft graft.
The grafted plant should be placed in a growing medium and kept warm and moist until the graft takes. Once the graft has taken, the plant can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until it reaches a suitable size for outdoor planting.
Disease Management for Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke, commonly known as Ashe's hawthorn or Caesar's hawthorn, is susceptible to various diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that affect this plant:
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease causes irreparable damage to the infected twigs, leaves, and flowers, leading to their blackening and eventual death. Pruning the infected parts and applying bactericides can manage the disease.
- Cedar apple rust: This fungal disease causes yellow or orange spots on the leaves, leading to their defoliation and reduced growth. Infections can be controlled by applying fungicides early in the spring season.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes blackish or brownish spots on the leaves, leading to their premature falling. Applying fungicides and maintaining good air circulation around the plant can control the disease.
Pest Management for Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke
Aside from diseases, Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke is also vulnerable to pest attacks. Here are some of the common pests that affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant's sap and secrete honeydew, attracting other pests. Using insecticidal soaps and hosing down the plant can manage the infestation.
- Mites: These microscopic insects cause bronzing or silvering of the leaves, leading to their curling and eventual loss. Applying miticides and maintaining adequate soil moisture can manage the infestation.
- Scale insects: These insects usually form colonies on the leaves and branches, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Using rubbing alcohol or insecticidal oils can manage the infestation.
Proper care and upkeep of Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. var. caesa (Ashe) Kruschke can help prevent diseases and pest infestations. Regular pruning, fertilization, and watering, as well as maintaining good air circulation, can keep the plant healthy and thriving.
