Description of Crataegus saeva Sarg.
Crataegus saeva Sarg. is a thorny, small-sized deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family and is commonly known as the Ash-thorn hawthorn. This plant is endemic to the eastern United States, where it can be found growing in sandy soils along riverbanks, open woods, and fields.
General Appearance
The tree can reach up to 8 meters in height, has a broad-rounded crown, and can spread almost as wide as it is tall. Its stem and branches are covered with gray to brown bark that is deeply furrowed and has numerous thorns that can grow up to 3 cm in length. The leaves are simple, elliptic, and serrated, measuring between 3 to 5 cm long and 1.5 to 3.5 cm wide. They emerge reddish-purple in color in the spring and turn to dull green as they mature. In autumn, the leaves turn reddish-orange to deep purple.
Common Names and Uses
The tree is commonly known as the Ash-thorn hawthorn due to the similarity of its leaves to those of the Ash tree. Crataegus saeva Sarg. is known for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant's leaves, flowers, and fruits are used to make teas, tinctures, and other herbal preparations. It is believed to be effective in the treatment of heart disease, high blood pressure, and digestive disorders. In addition, the tree provides food and shelter for various species of wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
In conclusion, the Crataegus saeva Sarg. is a valuable plant that has significant medicinal properties and provides ecological benefits. Its distinctive thorns and serrated leaves make it easily recognizable in the wild, and its small size and rounded crown make it a perfect addition to smaller landscapes.
Light Requirements
Crataegus saeva Sarg., commonly known as rusty hawthorn, prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate partial shade, but this may reduce the amount of flowering and fruiting. Therefore, it is best to plant the rusty hawthorn in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus saeva Sarg. thrives in temperate regions with mild summers and cool winters. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8, where the minimum temperature ranges from -30°F to 20°F (-34°C to -7°C). The plant can tolerate drought, but it requires regular watering during hot and dry spells to maintain optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The rusty hawthorn grows well in a variety of soil types, provided they are well-draining. It can tolerate clay, loam, and sandy soils, with a pH ranging from neutral to acidic (6.0-7.5). However, the plant prefers slightly acidic soils rich in organic matter, as they provide nutrients, improve soil texture, and retain moisture. It is recommended to amend poor soils with compost or other organic matter before planting.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus saeva Sarg., also known as black hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 7 meters in height. It prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. They can be propagated through seed sowing, softwood cuttings, or grafting onto rootstock.
For seed sowing, it is recommended to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing them in a seedling tray or directly on the ground. Softwood cuttings should be taken from new growth in early summer and propagated in a moist, well-draining soil mix. Grafting should be done during the dormant season, using a compatible rootstock and scion.
Watering Needs
Crataegus saeva Sarg. requires moderate watering during the growing season. It prefers to be kept evenly moist, but it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water deeply once a week rather than frequent shallow watering. During the winter dormant season, it can tolerate drier soils but still requires periodic watering.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not typically necessary for Crataegus saeva Sarg. If planted in nutrient-deficient soil, a slow-release, balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring. However, over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and a decrease in flowering.
Pruning
Pruning of Crataegus saeva Sarg. should be done during the dormant season to avoid damaging new growth. It is recommended to remove any dead or diseased wood, as well as any crossing branches or suckers. If shaping is desired, it is best to do so gradually over a period of several years. Heavy pruning can lead to a decreased flowering and fruiting.
Propagation of Crataegus saeva Sarg.
Crataegus saeva Sarg., commonly known as the "Hawthorn," is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the eastern part of North America, where it prefers to grow in well-drained soil and full sun. The plant is commonly used in landscaping due to its aesthetic appeal and numerous medicinal properties.
Propagation Methods
Crataegus saeva Sarg. can be propagated using several methods. The most common propagation methods include:
Seed Propagation
Propagation from seed is one of the easiest methods of propagating Crataegus saeva Sarg. Seeds are collected from ripe fruits and planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss. The pot or flat is then placed in a cool, dry location until the following spring when it is moved to a warmer, sunny location. Seedling growth will be slow, but the seedlings can be transplanted to a permanent location when they reach 6-8 inches in height.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation from cuttings is another viable method of propagating Crataegus saeva Sarg. Cuttings of hardwood are collected from mature plants in late fall or early winter. Cuttings are then stored in a cool, moist location until the following spring when they can be planted in well-drained soil. Rooting hormone can be used to enhance rooting success.
Layering Propagation
Propagation from layering is another method of propagating Crataegus saeva Sarg. In this method, a low-lying branch is bent towards the ground and secured in place. The branch is then covered with soil, leaving the tip of the branch exposed. The branch will eventually root, and the new plant can be separated from the parent plant when it reaches the desired size.
Propagation of Crataegus saeva Sarg. is relatively easy, and the resulting plants can be used in landscaping or for medicinal purposes. Care should be taken to ensure that the plant is not exposed to high winds or drought-like conditions until it is established.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus saeva Sarg.
Crataegus saeva Sarg., commonly known as the Draconian Hawthorn, is a species of hawthorn that is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management practices are essential to maintain the plant's health and ensure proper growth and development. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
Fire Blight: This bacterial disease can cause damage to the plant and even kill it. The symptoms include a sudden blackening and wilting of the flowers, leaves, and shoots. To manage fire blight, it is best to prune out the infected branches and keep the area around the plant clean and free from any debris. Additionally, you can apply copper-based fungicides in the early spring season to prevent the disease from taking hold.
Cedar-Apple Rust: This fungal disease is a common problem for hawthorn plants. It usually manifests as brown spots on leaves and fruits. To manage cedar-apple rust, remove any infected leaves and fruit from the plant and avoid planting hawthorn trees near cedar or juniper trees, which are known carriers of the disease. Additionally, you can apply fungicides to the plant to control the spread of the disease.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves and can cause them to fall off. To manage leaf spot, apply a fungicide that contains chlorothalonil to the affected area. Also, rake and dispose of any fallen leaves to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids: These pests feed on the plant's sap and can cause curling of the leaves. To manage aphids, wash the plant's leaves with a strong jet of water to remove them. Additionally, you can introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to help control the aphid population.
Hawthorn Lace Bug: These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn brown and die. To manage hawthorn lace bugs, apply insecticidal soap or oil to the affected area. Additionally, removing the affected leaves and maintaining a regular watering and fertilizing schedule can help prevent future infestations.
Scale Insects: These pests attach themselves to the underside of the leaves and can cause yellowing and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, apply horticultural oil or systemic insecticide to the plant. Additionally, washing the plant's leaves with a mild detergent solution can help remove the pests.
With adequate disease and pest management practices, Crataegus saeva Sarg. can thrive and remain healthy for years to come.
