Overview of Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke
Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii is a small tree with dense foliage and spiny branches that belongs to the family Rosaceae. It is commonly known as Eggleston's hawthorn and is native to eastern North America, particularly found in the states of Arkansas, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee.
Appearance of Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke
The tree can grow up to a height of around 6-9 meters, with a spread of 5-8 meters. It has a compact, rounded to broad-spreading crown. The leaves of the tree are dark green, glossy, and toothed, featuring an ovate or elliptic shape, and measuring up to 7 cm in length. The bark of Eggleston's hawthorn is grey-brown, developing vertical fissures with age.
The tree blossoms in late April to early May, producing fragrant, white, and pink-tinged flowers that are around 2 cm in diameter. The fruit, also known as haws, are small and red, measuring up to 1 cm in diameter, and can remain on the tree throughout the winter.
Uses of Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke
Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii is widely used in landscaping for its dense foliage and ornamental value. It is popularly grown in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. The tree also provides excellent cover and forage for wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Medicinally, the fruit, leaves, and flowers of Eggleston's hawthorn are used to make remedies for various ailments, including cardiovascular issues and digestive problems.
In traditional medicine, the fruits have been used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and malaria, while the leaves have been used to relieve cramps and reduce blood pressure. The flowers are useful in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
Overall, Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii is an attractive and useful tree with numerous benefits. Its aesthetic value, as well as its medicinal and ecological uses, make it a valuable addition to any landscape.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke plant typically requires full sun to partial shade. It is important to note that too much shade may inhibit blooming and fruit production. It is best to plant this species in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, but can tolerate some shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species can thrive in a range of temperatures. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of -12°C to -18°C in winter dormancy. However, during the growing season, it prefers a moderate temperature range of 18°C to 27°C. Any extremes in temperature can cause damage to the plant and negatively affect growth and production.
Soil Requirements
The Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke plant prefers a well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It can tolerate a range of soils, including clay, loam, and sandy soils but prefers a loamy soil type that is rich in organic matter. It is important to avoid planting in consistently wet or boggy soils as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke is relatively easy to cultivate and can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures and occasional drought conditions.
Watering
The watering needs of Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke depend on several factors, including the climate and soil type. Generally, the plant needs regular watering during the first growing season to establish its root system. After that, the plant can tolerate periods of drought. However, during prolonged dry spells, it's important to water the plant deeply and less frequently, rather than shallowly and frequently.
Fertilization
Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke does not require frequent fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and poor flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and health of Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke. The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Thin out dense growth to improve air circulation and light penetration. Avoid pruning during the growing season as this can stress the plant and inhibit flowering.
Propagation of Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke
Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke, commonly known as Eggleston's hawthorn, is a shrub or small tree native to North America. The plant can be propagated by several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest method of propagation is by seeds. Seeds should be collected in the fall when they are ripe and have turned dark brown. After collecting the seeds, they should be stratified for 90 days by storing them in a refrigerator at about 40°F. After stratification, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The seedlings should be kept moist and in a bright but shaded location. The seedlings can be transplanted when they reach a height of 6 inches.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is also possible, but it is more difficult than propagating by seed. Cuttings should be taken in the summer from semi-hardwood and hardwood stems. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and have at least two sets of leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist in a shaded location. Rooting should occur within 6-8 weeks. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted to larger pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation by grafting is the most commonly used method for commercial production. The scionwood, which is the part of the plant to be propagated, should be taken in the winter when the plant is dormant. The rootstock should be chosen carefully to ensure compatibility with the scionwood. The graft should be made in early spring, and care should be taken to match the cambium layers of the scionwood and rootstock. The grafted plant should be kept in a warm, humid location until it begins to grow, at which point it can be planted in a sunny location.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke
Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke, commonly known as Eggleston's Hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to North America. Like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Cedar-Apple Rust
Cedar-Apple rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow spots on the leaves of the plant. The disease is caused by the fungus Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae, which requires both cedar trees and apple trees to complete its life cycle. To manage the disease, remove any cedar trees that are located within a few hundred yards of the hawthorn plant and prune any infected areas on the plant.
Hawthorn Rust
Hawthorn rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow spots on the leaves of the plant, which eventually turn black. The disease is caused by the fungus Gymnosporangium globosum, which requires both hawthorn plants and juniper trees to complete its life cycle. To manage the disease, remove any juniper trees that are located within a few hundred yards of the hawthorn plant and prune any infected areas on the plant.
Pests
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that can be found on the undersides of leaves. They suck the sap from the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. It is important to spray the plant thoroughly, including the undersides of the leaves.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, hard-shelled insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves. To manage scale insects, scrub the plant with a soft-bristled brush and a mixture of water and soap. Alternatively, use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are shiny green and brown insects that feed on the leaves of the plant. They skeletonize the leaves, leaving only the veins. To manage Japanese beetles, pick them off the plant by hand and drop them into soapy water. Alternatively, use a pesticide labeled for use on Japanese beetles, being sure to follow the instructions carefully.
By being attentive to the signs of disease and pests that may affect your hawthorn plants and taking quick actions to manage them, the Crataegus scabrida Sarg. var. egglestonii (Sarg.) Kruschke hawthorn species should continue to thrive and provide beauty to your garden or landscape.
