Origin and Common Names
Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke, commonly known as Schuette's hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern United States, specifically found in parts of Virginia and West Virginia. It was first discovered by botanist Edward Schuette in 1909, which is where it was given its common name.
General Appearance
Schuette's hawthorn typically grows 8 to 12 feet tall and spreads out about the same width. The tree has a rounded, spreading habit and features dark-green leaves that display autumn colors of red, orange and yellow. The tree, like all hawthorns, also contains stout thorns on its branches. Pink to white flowers emerge in the spring and are followed by small red fruit which ripen in late summer and persist through winter.
Uses
Schuette's hawthorn is primarily used in ornamental gardening and landscaping due to its attractive flowers, foliage, and fruit. It can also be used as a barrier plant due to its thorns. Medicinally, hawthorn has historically been used to treat cardiovascular and gastrointestinal ailments. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence for these uses is limited and consulting a healthcare professional is recommended before using hawthorn for medicinal purposes.
Light Requirements
Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in areas where it is exposed to direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. However, during the hottest months of the year, it may require some shading to prevent damage due to excessive heat.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in temperate regions with a warm summer and a cool winter. The ideal temperature range for the growth of Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke is between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It can tolerate low temperatures of up to -23°C (-9°F) during the winter. However, it may not do well in areas with high humidity, as this can increase the risk of fungal diseases.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, it requires adequate moisture to grow properly. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil can also help improve its fertility and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation
The Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke, commonly known as the Wedge-leaf Hawthorn, grows best in regions with well-draining soils, full sun exposure, and moderate to high levels of humidity. This plant is cold-hardy, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8, and can tolerate drought once established.
Propagation can be done through seed or hardwood cuttings in early fall or late winter. Seedlings should be transplanted in spring to their permanent locations, which should be well-spaced, allowing sufficient room for growth.
Watering Needs
Young Wedge-leaf Hawthorns require frequent watering to establish root systems, but the frequency can be reduced gradually as the plant matures. Water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil doesn't dry out completely between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and affect the overall health of the plant.
Fertilization
Proper soil nutrients are crucial for healthy plant growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer, preferably organic, during the growing season, about once every three months. Over-fertilization can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower and fruit production. To avoid this, ensure that the fertilizer application is moderate and in line with the plant's needs.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary for maintaining the Wedge-leaf Hawthorn's shape, size, and health. The best time for pruning is during the plant's dormant season, typically late winter to early spring. Use sharp, sterile pruning tools to avoid damage and infection. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches as soon as possible to prevent further spread.
Light pruning can be done during the growing season to encourage bushier growth, but avoid excessive pruning, as this can weaken the plant and reduce flower and fruit production.
Propagation of Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke
Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke, commonly known as wedgeleaf hawthorn, is a deciduous tree that is native to the southeastern United States. The tree is typically found in woodlands, along streams, and on rocky slopes. Propagation of this tree can be done by various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke can be done by seeds, which are produced in the fall. To collect the seeds, wait until the fruit has turned red and has softened. Remove the fruit from the tree and remove the seeds from the fruit. Clean the seeds by removing any pulp or debris. Stratify the seeds by placing them in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator for 60-90 days. Once stratified, plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. Germination may take several weeks or months.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke can also be done by cuttings. Take semi-hardwood cuttings in the late summer or early fall. Cuttings should be about 6 inches long with at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and place a plastic bag over the top to create a greenhouse effect. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm, bright location. After several weeks, check for roots by gently tugging on the cutting. If there is resistance, then roots have formed.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation of Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke can also be done by grafting. This method is typically used when a specific cultivar is desired. Take a cutting from the desired cultivar and graft it onto a rootstock of a related species of hawthorn. The best time to do this is in the spring, before the tree begins to leaf out. Make a diagonal cut on both pieces, making sure the cambium layers line up. Secure the pieces together with grafting tape and wrap them in plastic to keep them moist. Over time, the scion will fuse with the rootstock, creating a single tree.
Disease Management
Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke, commonly known as wedgeleaf hawthorn, is susceptible to several diseases. The most common diseases found in this plant are leaf blight, fire blight, and rust.
Leaf Blight: Leaf blight is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation. To manage this disease, prune the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them. Apply a fungicide to the plant, following the instructions on the label.
Fire Blight: Fire blight is a bacterial disease that causes the branches to turn black and wilt. The leaves may remain on the plant even after they are dead. To manage this disease, prune the infected areas of the plant, making sure to dispose of them properly. Apply a copper-based fungicide to the plant, following the instructions on the label.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or yellow spots on the leaves. Over time, the leaves turn brown and fall off. To manage this disease, prune the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them. Apply a fungicide to the plant, following the instructions on the label.
Pest Management
Crataegus schuettei Ashe var. cuneata Kruschke is also vulnerable to several pests. These pests are aphids, spider mites, and scale insects.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of plants. They cause the leaves to curl and deform. To manage this pest, spray the plant with insecticidal soap, following the instructions on the label. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the underside of the leaves. They cause yellow spots on the leaves and weaken the plant. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a miticide, following the instructions on the label. You can also introduce natural predators like predatory mites.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that feed on the sap of plants. They cause yellowing of the leaves and the production of a sticky substance on the leaves. To manage this pest, prune the infected areas of the plant and dispose of them. You can also apply a horticultural oil to the plant to suffocate the insects.
