Overview
Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. is a species of flowering plants in the rose family, Rosaceae. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Texas. It is commonly known as Reverchon's hawthorn, after Julien Reverchon, a French botanist who collected the type specimen of the plant in the late 19th century.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 20 feet tall, with a rounded crown and a trunk that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. Its leaves are elliptic to obovate, about 1-2 inches long and wide, with serrated margins and a glossy green color. The flowers are usually white, with five petals and numerous stamens, and are arranged in flat clusters that can measure up to 3 inches across. The fruits are small red pomes that are about 0.5-0.7 inches in diameter, and contain one or two seeds.
Uses
Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, due to its attractive, glossy foliage, showy flowers, and bright red fruits. It can also be used as a hedge or screening plant, or as a specimen plant in small gardens. In addition, it has medicinal properties, and is used in traditional medicine to treat heart and gastrointestinal disorders.
Growth Conditions for Crataegus reverchonii Sarg.
Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. plant typically thrives well under favorably moderate growing conditions. This plant requires a combination of the following essential growth factors:
Light
Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. grows optimally under full to partial sunlight exposure. Therefore, it is highly suitable to plant in areas that receive sufficient sunlight exposure. Additionally, this plant requires at least six hours of uninterrupted sunlight exposure per day.
Temperature
Temperature is a significant growth influencer for the Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. plant. It grows best in areas with a temperate climate, such as the United States. This plant requires a temperature range of between 55°F to 70°F (12°C to 21°C) to grow well. Temperatures that exceed 85°F (30°C) will cause heat stress, which will eventually lead to the death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. plant requires a well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil; therefore, it is best to plant in soils with a pH range between 5.0 to 6.5. Additionally, it requires a moist, well-draining, deep soil rich in organic matter with good water-holding capacity, particularly during the dry season. Moreover, it is sensitive to salty soil, so it is necessary to plant in soils with a low salt content.
When these factors are combined, Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. can grow up to 15 feet in height and 20 feet in width. The plant's growth can occur relatively quickly, taking up to five years to reach its maximum growth potential.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus reverchonii Sarg., commonly known as Reverchon's hawthorn, is a small flowering tree that is native to west and central Texas. It is relatively easy to cultivate and requires well-draining soil, full or partial sun exposure, and moderate watering. The tree can tolerate dry and drought-like conditions but prefers moist soil. It is recommended to plant the tree in late fall or early winter.
Watering Needs
Young Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. trees require regular watering to establish deep roots and promote healthy growth. The tree should receive at least one inch of water per week during the growing season. It is essential not to over-water the tree, which can lead to root rot and fungal problems. Once established, the tree can thrive with occasional watering.
Fertilization
Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. does not need frequent fertilizing. However, adding a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, during the tree's growing season can help promote healthy foliage and flowers. It's best to fertilize the tree during the spring or early summer months after the last frost. Over-fertilizing can lead to an excessive growth of the tree's foliage at the expense of flowers, and may attract pests and diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is vital to maintain the tree's size and shape and to ensure healthy growth. It is best to prune Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. during the dormant season. You can remove any dead, damaged, or diseased limbs to prevent the spread of diseases. However, it's important not to remove more than a third of the tree's foliage in one season. This can stress the tree and lead to stunted growth and fewer blooms. You can shape the tree by pruning the top branches and promoting lateral growth. Regular pruning can result in an attractive, compact shape in your Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. tree.
Propagation of Crataegus reverchonii Sarg.
Propagation is the process of reproducing a plant through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, layering, and grafting. Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. can be propagated through some of the mentioned methods.
Propagation through seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. is by seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil in a seed bed or any container with a depth of about 1-2 cm. The seeds require a cold stratification period of about 30-90 days before sowing at a temperature of 20°C. After germination, the seedlings can be grown in a nursery for one year and then transplanted to the main field.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method that can be used to reproduce Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. It involves cutting a stem or branch from the mother plant and planting it in a rooting medium to develop its roots. Hardwood cuttings about 20 cm long should be taken during the dormant season and planted in the soil with one-third of the cutting underground. The cuttings should be kept moist and not allowed to dry for proper root development. After six months, the rooted cuttings can be transplanted into the field.
Propagation through layering
Propagation through layering is a process of inducing roots to form on the stem while still attached to the plant. This method is best for shrubs, and it involves bending a lower stem to the ground and covering it with soil while still attached to the parent plant. The stem should be scratched with a knife to allow for a better root formation. The layered stem should be covered with a plastic sheet to maintain moisture and warmth. After about six months, the stem should have formed roots, and it can be cut away from the mother plant and transplanted into the main field.
Propagation through grafting
Grafting involves joining a stem or branch of a desired plant onto a rootstock with a strong root system. This method can be used to propagate Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. Grafting involves selecting a rootstock that has the desired characteristics such as disease resistance and good root system. A stem or branch from the desired plant is then grafted onto the rootstock. The grafted plant should then be kept moist and covered with a clear plastic bag to maintain moisture. After about six months, the scion should have fused with the rootstock and formed a new plant that can be transplanted into the field.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus reverchonii Sarg.
Crataegus reverchonii Sarg., commonly known as Reverchon's hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. To ensure the healthy growth and survival of the plant, it is important to manage these issues effectively. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Crataegus reverchonii Sarg., along with suggestions for their management.
Diseases
Fire Blight: This bacterial disease causes wilting and blackening of the leaves, stems, and flowers. It is spread by insects, wind, and rain and can be managed by pruning the infected parts of the plant and using copper-based fungicides.
Cedar-Apple Rust: This fungal disease causes yellowish spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation. It can also affect the fruit, causing deformation and reduced yield. Removing the nearby cedar trees and applying fungicides can manage this disease.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes round, brownish spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation. It can also affect the fruit, causing deformation and reduced yield. Applying fungicides and ensuring proper air circulation can manage this disease.
Pests
Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing distorted leaves and stunted growth. They can be managed by spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mites: These tiny pests can cause bronzing or yellowing of the leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced growth. They can be managed by spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: These larvae of moths can defoliate the plant and cause reduced fruit yield. They can be managed by handpicking them or using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticides.
In conclusion, managing the diseases and pests of Crataegus reverchonii Sarg. is crucial for its healthy growth and survival. By using appropriate management practices, you can ensure a vibrant and flourishing plant.
