Overview
Crataegus rubella Beadle, commonly known as the Scarlet Hawthorn or Red hawthorn, is a small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in Canada and the United States. This tree species is famous for its nourishing fruits and leaves, which have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
General appearance
The Scarlet Hawthorn tree is a small deciduous plant that typically grows up to 4-6 meters tall. Its leaves are glossy and serrated with a dark green hue, measuring about 3-5 cm in length. The bark of the plant is grey to brown and has thorny branches. Its flowers have a pleasant aroma and are small, white, and appear in clusters in May-June. The tree bears fruits that are shiny, bright red, and resemble small apples, which ripen in September-October.
Common Names
The Scarlet Hawthorn plant is commonly known by several names, including Red Hawthorn, Scarlet-fruited Thorn, and River Hawthorn.
Uses
The fruits, leaves, and flowers of the Scarlet Hawthorn plant have numerous medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The fruits contain antioxidants and are rich in minerals and vitamins, making them a nutritious food source. They are also used to make jams, jellies, and drinks. The leaves of the plant are used to make teas and tinctures that treat heart and blood vessel disorders. The Scarlet Hawthorn fruits and flowers are also used to make cardiovascular medications
Light Requirements
Crataegus rubella Beadle, commonly known as Appalachian hawthorn or red hawthorn, prefers full sun to partial shade exposure. This plant grows well in areas with bright and direct sunlight. However, it can also tolerate and grow under partial shade conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The typical growth temperature range for Crataegus rubella Beadle is between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). This plant grows well in a temperate climate with mild temperatures, but it can also tolerate lower temperatures during the winter. The plant cannot survive in areas with extremely high temperatures or frequent temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus rubella Beadle grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 to 7.0. The plant requires moist soils but cannot tolerate soils that are waterlogged or have poor drainage. This plant is sensitive to soil salinity and pollution, so it cannot grow in areas with heavy pollution or high salt levels.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus rubella Beadle, commonly known as the red hawthorn, is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It is adaptable to a variety of soils and climates and does well in full sun or partial shade.
The plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings or grafts, and can be planted either in fall or spring. When selecting a site, ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile, and that the plant has adequate space to grow.
Watering Needs
The red hawthorn requires a moderate amount of water, especially during its initial growth stages. Ideally, the soil should be kept moist, but avoid over-watering, as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. If grown in a container, ensure that it has proper drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
While the red hawthorn does not require regular fertilization, it benefits from periodic applications of organic or balanced fertilizers. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring or late fall to supply the necessary nutrients to the plant. Avoid excess nitrogen, which can promote lush foliage at the expense of flowers and fruit.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of the red hawthorn. It is recommended to prune the plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased or damaged wood, and thin out any crowded or crossing branches to improve air circulation and light penetration. Trim the tips of the branches to promote bushiness and stimulate new growth.
Propagation of Crataegus rubella Beadle
Crataegus rubella Beadle, commonly known as the Red hawthorn, is a small tree or large shrub that can grow up to 6 meters in height. This plant is native to North America and can be propagated by various methods such as seeding, cutting, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common and simple way to propagate C. rubella. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the fall or stratified for several months before sowing. Before sowing, the seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water overnight. The seeds should be sown 1cm deep in the soil, and the seedlings should be kept well-watered and protected from harsh sun and wind.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation through cutting involves taking a part of the stem or a branch from a healthy plant and planting it into a suitable rooting medium. The stem should be taken during the dormant season, by cutting it 15-20 cm long and removing all the leaves except the top two. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of sand and peat. The pot should be kept in a shaded area and the soil should be kept moist. After a few weeks, roots will develop and the plant can be transplanted into the field.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another method used to propagate C. rubella. It involves taking a scion from a desired cultivar and grafting it onto a rootstock of a related species. The rootstock will provide the plant with its root system while the scion provides the desired characteristics of the new plant. The graft should be done in early spring by making a slit in the rootstock and inserting the scion, and then wrapping the area with grafting tape to hold it in place. The grafted plant should be kept in a moist, shaded area and watered regularly.
Propagation of Crataegus rubella Beadle can be easily achieved through seed, cutting, or grafting methods. By choosing the right method and providing the right conditions, a great new plant can easily be grown.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus rubella Beadle Plants
Crataegus rubella Beadle, commonly known as the Red Hawthorn, is a popular landscape and garden plant often grown for its attractive flowers, berries, and foliage. While this species is known for being relatively disease and pest-resistant, there are still some common issues that may arise. Effective disease and pest management techniques can help maintain the health and beauty of these plants.
Common Diseases That Affect Crataegus rubella Beadle
One of the most common diseases that can affect Crataegus rubella Beadle plants is fire blight, caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora. Symptoms of fire blight include wilting and blackening of the foliage, and brown discoloration of the bark. To manage fire blight, it is important to prune affected branches, sterilizing pruning tools between cuts to avoid spreading the disease. Additionally, copper or streptomycin sprays may be used preventively during periods of high humidity or rainfall.
Leaf spot is another common disease that can affect Crataegus rubella Beadle plants, caused by various fungal pathogens such as Entomosporium maculatum. Symptoms include the appearance of small, dark spots on the leaves that may coalesce and cause defoliation. To manage leaf spot, affected foliage should be removed and disposed of, and sprays containing copper or Maneb may be applied.
Common Pests That Affect Crataegus rubella Beadle
One pest that can cause damage to Crataegus rubella Beadle plants is the hawthorn lace bug, Corythucha cydoniae, which feeds on the sap of the foliage and can cause yellowing, wilting or, in severe cases, defoliation. To manage hawthorn lace bugs, regular monitoring is recommended, and insecticides may be used if populations exceed threshold levels. Alternatively, introducing natural predators such as parasitic wasps may help control the population.
Another pest that can affect Crataegus rubella Beadle plants is the pear blight beetle, Agrilus sinuatus, which attacks the bark and cambium layer of the trunk, leading to the death of branches and eventually the entire tree. To manage pear blight beetles, removing and burning affected branches is recommended, and insecticides may be used preventively.
Conclusion
Effective disease and pest management is crucial to maintaining healthy and thriving Crataegus rubella Beadle plants. Regular monitoring, prompt identification, and appropriate treatment are key to ensuring the longevity and beauty of these stunning plants.
