Overview of Crataegus pentagyna
Crataegus pentagyna is commonly known as the Parsley-leaf hawthorn, and is found in the rose family (Rosaceae). It is a deciduous tree or shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall, with a rounded crown and dense thorny branches.
Origin of Crataegus Pentagyna
The Parsley-leaf hawthorn is native to Europe and Western Asia but has been introduced in other regions of the world such as North America. It prefers to grow in damp habitats like native woodland, forest edges, and stream banks, and can tolerate a wide range of soils.
General Appearance of Crataegus Pentagyna
The Parsley-leaf hawthorn has a distinctive appearance, with lobed, parsley-like leaves that are grayish-green, deeply cut with serrated edges and up to 10cm in length. It has small white or pink flowers that bloom in May and June, which are followed by bright red fruit or berries in autumn, which are about 1cm in diameter and have a sour taste.
Uses of Crataegus Pentagyna
Crataegus Pentagyna is used for a variety of purposes. The bark and leaves are rich in flavonoids and other phytochemicals that are used for medicinal purposes, specifically for treating heart-related conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol and angina. The berries can be eaten raw or used to make jams, jellies, and syrups. The plant is also used for landscaping purposes to create hedges or as a specimen plant in gardens due to its attractive foliage, flowers, and berries.
Light Requirements
Crataegus pentagyna requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering. It can also tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced. It is important to ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus pentagyna can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -30°C to +40°C. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C and 26°C. In areas with extremely hot summers, it is important to ensure that the plant is protected from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. Similarly, in areas with very cold winters, the tree must be protected from frost.
Soil Requirements
The soil in which Crataegus pentagyna grows should be well-draining and fertile. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.5). It is important to ensure that the soil is kept moist, but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can lead to root rot. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil can improve its fertility and water retention capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus pentagyna is a tree that grows well in full sun. It can tolerate cold weather and is drought-tolerant. It prefers a well-drained soil and sites with good air circulation. The plant's growth environment should be between 6 - 8 pH.
Watering Needs
The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season to ensure that the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches. However, it does not tolerate excessive moisture and will suffer from waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Crataegus pentagyna does not require a lot of fertilizer. A good quality slow-release fertilizer applied once a year in early spring is adequate. Alternatively, a handful of compost can be added to the base of the tree in the spring.
Pruning
The tree should receive a light pruning annually to maintain its shape or remove any dead or diseased wood. Heavy pruning is not recommended as the plant blooms on old wood, meaning excessive pruning may impact flowering. Pruning can be done in the early spring when the plant is dormant.
Propagation Methods for Crataegus Pentagyna
Here are the different ways to propagate Crataegus pentagyna:
Seed Propagation
Crataegus pentagyna can be propagated from seeds. The seeds should be sown in the fall because they need to undergo stratification to break dormancy. Stratification can be done by placing the seeds in moist sand or peat and storing them in the refrigerator for several weeks to months. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in containers filled with a well-draining potting mix. Make sure to keep the soil moist and provide sunlight or artificial light until the seedlings are established.
Cuttings Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Crataegus pentagyna is through cuttings. Hardwood cuttings should be taken from the mother plant in late fall or early winter. The cuttings should be about 8-12 inches long and ¼ -½ inch in diameter. Remove the bottom leaves and any flowers or buds. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and insert them in a well-drained potting mix. Water the soil and cover the container with a plastic bag to increase humidity. Place the container in a shaded area and make sure to keep the soil moist. In about 3-4 months, the cuttings should have developed roots and can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another method used to propagate Crataegus pentagyna. This method involves taking a stem piece or scion from the desired plant and attaching it to a rootstock that will provide the root system. The success of grafting depends on the compatibility of the scion and rootstock. The best time to graft is in early spring before the leaves start to grow. After the grafting process, cover the grafted area with a grafting wax to prevent drying out. The plant should be watered and placed in a shaded area until it establishes roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus Pentagyna
Crataegus pentagyna, commonly known as the Eastern hawthorn, is a plant known for its excellent beauty. Though it is mostly pest-resistant, it can also suffer from diseases such as cedar-hawthorn rust, fire blight, and apple scab. Pests such as the apple maggot and Japanese beetles also pose a threat. Here are ways to manage pests and diseases that may affect Crataegus pentagyna:
Common Diseases and Pests
Cedar-Hawthorn Rust
Cedar-hawthorn rust is caused by the fungus Gymnosporangium globosum. This disease can cause pimple-like swellings on the leaves of the plant, and the leaves eventually turn yellow and drop off. To manage this disease, prune the infected branches and dispose of them far away from the plant.
Fire Blight
Fireblight is caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora and usually occurs during the early parts of spring. Symptoms of the disease include wilting blossom blight, shoot blight, and canker. To manage this disease, you must prune actively infected branches, sterilizing the equipment used after every cut. Ensure that you dispose of the pruned branches far from the plant.
Apple Scab
Apple scab is caused by the fungus Venturia inaequalis. Symptoms of this disease include dark patches on the top of the leaves, which gradually enlarge to cover the whole leaf. To manage this disease, use fungicides and ensure that the infected leaves are raked and disposed of.
Apple Maggot
Apple maggot is a pest that is attracted to hawthorn fruits. The adult apple maggot flies lay their eggs in the fruits, and the emerging maggots eventually damage the fruit. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal soap sprays or traps to capture the flies.
Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are pests that are attracted to the foliage of Crataegus pentagyna. Japanese beetles are incredibly destructive; they damage crops, lawns, and gardens. To manage these pests, catch them individually using your hands and then dispose of them far from the plant. Alternatively, you can spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
