Origin and Common Names
Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke is a species of hawthorn tree that primarily grows in the southeastern United States, particularly in the Appalachian Mountains. It is also commonly known as Red hawthorn, Scarlet hawthorn, and Appalachian red hawthorn.Appearance
The tree typically grows up to 30 feet tall and has a dense and rounded canopy. The trunk and branches are gray-brown in color, with many thorns up to 2 inches long. The leaves are oval in shape, with toothed edges and a glossy dark green color. During the spring blooming period from late March until early May, small white flowers appear in clusters, and are replaced in the fall by bright red fruit.Uses
Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke has several uses in traditional medicine. The fruits of the tree can be used to make teas, tinctures, and syrups that have traditionally been used as a digestive aid and to support healthy blood pressure levels. The leaves and flowers also have properties that help support healthy cardiovascular function. In addition to its medicinal properties, the tree is an attractive ornamental plant that can be used in home landscaping. Its dense canopy and compact growth habit make it an excellent choice for hedges and windbreaks. The tree also provides habitat and food for birds and other wildlife. Overall, Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke is a fascinating tree that has many uses and qualities. Its beautiful flowers and fruit, glossy foliage, and dense growth habit make it an excellent addition to any garden or landscape.Light Requirements
Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke typically thrives in areas with full sun exposure to partial shade. It usually grows well under full sun conditions in cooler regions whereas it prefers partial shade in hotter regions.
Temperature Requirements
The preferred temperature for the growth of Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke is usually between 60°F and 85°F (15.5°C and 29.4°C). However, it can tolerate colder temperatures if the soil drainage is good, and the plant is not in standing water.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for the growth of Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke are well-drained, moist, and have good fertility. It usually grows well on medium to heavy clay soils, but it can also grow well on sandy or rocky soils if there is sufficient water and nutrient supply. The soil pH should range from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.5), and the plant should be placed in an area protected from strong winds.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke, commonly known as Roan Mountain hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the rose family. This plant is native to the southeastern region of the United States and requires full sun to partial shade to grow. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall, and the soil must be well-draining and fertile for optimal growth. It is essential to have adequate spacing between each plant for proper air circulation, preventing the development of diseases.
Watering Needs
The Roan Mountain hawthorn requires consistent watering to stay healthy and prevent drought stress. The frequency and volume of watering depend on the season, weather patterns, and soil conditions. During the growing season, the plant should receive 1-2 inches of water per week. Check the soil moisture level regularly and irrigate thoroughly to ensure the water reaches the roots. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilization
The Roan Mountain hawthorn benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. Fertilize the plant annually in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as these promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers and fruit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the application rate and watering requirements.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape, size, and health of the Roan Mountain hawthorn. It is best to prune the plant during its dormant season, which is in late winter or early spring. Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead wood, making clean cuts close to the base of the stem. Thin out the branches to reduce the risk of overcrowding and promote better airflow. If necessary, prune the tips of the branches to encourage bushier growth. Avoid pruning the plant heavily, as this can reduce flowering and weaken the plant.
Propagation of Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke
Propagation of Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke can be done by using seeds, cuttings, layering and grafting.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke is by using seeds. Collect fresh seeds from the plant in late autumn or early winter. The seeds can be directly sown in the soil or started indoors in pots during early spring. The seeds will germinate in about 2-4 months.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another way to propagate Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke. Take semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early fall. The cuttings should have 2-3 nodes and be about 10-15 cm long. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil evenly moist and place in a sheltered location with bright but indirect light. The cuttings will root in about 2-3 months.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another propagation method for Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke. Bend a low hanging branch to the ground and cover a part of it with soil. Keep the soil evenly moist and roots will form on the covered part of the branch after a few months. The rooted branch can then be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a way to propagate Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke onto a rootstock of a related hawthorn species. Collect scions from the plant in late winter or early spring and graft them onto a rootstock in late winter or early spring. The graft should be kept moist and shaded until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Plant diseases are the major threats to Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke. The common diseases affecting the plant are cedar-hawthorn rust and fire blight.
Cedar-hawthorn rust appears as bright orange or yellow spots on the leaves and stems. It can cause early defoliation and reduce tree vigor. The disease can be managed by removing nearby junipers and preventing overcrowding in the orchard. Fungicides can also be applied before the disease strikes, especially during wet weather conditions.
Fire blight is characterized by the leaves and branches turning dark brown and slimy. The bacteria causing the disease can spread quickly, leading to the death of the entire tree. Pruning, removal and disposal of infected parts of the tree before and during the disease outbreak can help manage the disease. Antibiotics can also be used as preventive measures.
Pest Management
Common pests that affect Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke are aphids and borers, which can cause damage to the tree's leaves and stem, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields.
Aphids can be managed by naturally controlling other insects that prey on them, such as lady beetles and parasitic wasps. Pruning of heavily infested parts of the tree and application of insecticidal soaps can also help manage the pest.
Borers can be prevented by keeping the trees well-watered and healthy. Removal of affected parts during pruning and application of effective insecticides early enough can help control their spread.
Regular monitoring and maintenance of the orchard can help prevent or minimize the damage of pests and diseases to Crataegus roanensis Ashe var. heidelbergensis (Sarg.) Kruschke.
