Overview of Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg.
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. is a species of flowering plant in the rose family that is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. Commonly known as the Chinese hawthorn, the plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is a small, deciduous tree or shrub that is typically found in hedgerows, woodlands, and along roadsides.
Appearance of Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg.
The plant has a dense, thorny branching structure with lobed and serrated dark green leaves that turn orange or red in the autumn. It produces fragrant white or pink flowers in the spring, which are followed by bright red berries. The berries can remain on the plant throughout the winter, providing a source of food for birds and other wildlife.
Uses of Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg.
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine as a treatment for digestive and cardiovascular issues. The fruit and leaves are thought to increase blood circulation and lower blood pressure, as well as provide relief from stomach pain and indigestion. In addition to its medicinal properties, the fruit of the Chinese hawthorn is also used in cooking. It has a tart, apple-like flavor and is often used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves.
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. is also a popular ornamental plant in landscapes and gardens. Its attractive foliage, colorful berries, and fragrant flowers make it a desirable choice for gardeners looking to add visual interest to their outdoor spaces. The thorny branches, which provide shelter for birds and other wildlife, also make it a good choice for hedgerows and wildlife gardens.
Overall, Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. is a versatile and valuable plant with a rich history of use both medicinally and decoratively.Growth Conditions for Crataegus Subrotundifolia Sarg.
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. is a deciduous flowering plant that belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. It is commonly known as the roundleaf hawthorn and is native to Southeastern United States.
Light Requirements
The roundleaf hawthorn prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may compromise the plant's flowering and growth. In areas with hot weather, providing some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorching and premature foliage drop.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9, withstanding temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C). It can tolerate a range of temperatures and weather conditions, but it prefers a mild, humid climate.
Soil Requirements
The roundleaf hawthorn can grow in a variety of well-drained soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It can tolerate soil pH levels from acidic to alkaline, ranging from 5.0 to 8.0. However, it prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5. Adding organic matter such as compost and mulch can improve soil fertility and moisture retention.
Overall, Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. is a resilient plant that can adapt to different growing conditions, but providing the optimal light, temperature, and soil conditions can promote healthy growth and blooming.
Cultivation
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg., commonly known as the roundleaf hawthorn, is a small tree or shrub native to the southeastern United States. It is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9 and requires well-drained soil and full sun to thrive. The plant is propagated by seed or cuttings.
The seeds must be stratified or chilled in the refrigerator for at least 60 days to break their dormancy. This can be done by placing them in a plastic bag with moist sand or vermiculite and storing them in the refrigerator. Cuttings should be taken from young, vigorous shoots in the spring or early summer and treated with rooting hormone to increase their chances of success.
Watering needs
The roundleaf hawthorn prefers moderate to regular watering, especially during dry spells. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other diseases. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. is not a heavy feeder and generally does not require fertilization. However, if the soil is poor or the plant shows signs of nutrient deficiency, it can be given a general-purpose, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing.
Pruning
Pruning of the roundleaf hawthorn should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches and thin out any crossing or overcrowded branches. If the plant is being trained as a tree, remove any shoots that emerge from the base or along the trunk to maintain a single stem. If the plant is being grown as a shrub, it can be pruned to shape as desired.
Propagation of Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg.
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. can be propagated through various methods including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest and most common method of propagating Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. Seeds can be collected from mature fruits in the fall and can be planted immediately or stored for a few months before planting. Clean the seeds and soak them in warm water for 24 hours prior to planting. The seeds can then be sown into a seedling mix or soil. Keep the soil moist and the temperature around 68-77°F (20-25°C). The seeds should germinate after 3-4 weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted into individual containers or into the ground once they have developed secondary leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from actively growing stems in the spring or early summer. Cuttings should be about 6-8 inches long and have at least two nodes on them. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Insert it into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix or sand. Cover it with a plastic bag or a dome to keep the soil moist. Keep the cutting in a shaded area with a temperature around 68-77°F (20-25°C). After 4-6 weeks, the cutting should develop roots and can be transplanted into a larger container or into the ground.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another method of propagating Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg. It involves joining two different plant parts together so that they grow as one. This method is used mainly to propagate cultivars that cannot be propagated by cuttings. The scion (the plant that is propagated) is taken from the desired cultivar and is grafted onto a rootstock of a related species. The rootstock should be planted first in the ground and then, the scion should be grafted onto it in the spring.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg.
Crataegus subrotundifolia Sarg., also known as the fleshy hawthorn, is a small tree or shrub that is native to North America. As with any plant, the fleshy hawthorn is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fire Blight: Fire blight is a bacterial disease that affects various members of the Rosaceae family, including the fleshy hawthorn. The symptoms of fire blight include wilting leaves and branches that turn black as if scorched by fire. The best way to manage fire blight is to prune and dispose of infected branches. Also, avoid using nitrogen-rich fertilizers, which can encourage bacterial growth.
Cedar-Apple Rust: Cedar-apple rust is a fungal disease that affects members of the Rosaceae family, including the fleshy hawthorn. The disease causes bright-orange, spiky structures on the branches of the plant. The best way to manage cedar-apple rust is to prune and dispose of infected branches. Also, avoid planting the fleshy hawthorn near junipers, which are the alternate host of the pathogen.
Hawthorn Rust: Hawthorn rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the fleshy hawthorn. The disease causes yellow spots on the leaves that turn brown and fall off. The best way to manage hawthorn rust is to rake and dispose of infected leaves. Also, avoid overcrowding and provide adequate air circulation around the plant.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the fleshy hawthorn. The infested leaves curl and turn yellow. The best way to manage aphids is to spray the plant with water to knock them off or use insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They spin webs on the leaves of the fleshy hawthorn and suck the sap from them. The infested leaves turn yellow and fall off. The best way to manage spider mites is to spray the plant with water to knock them off or use insecticidal soap.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and branches of the fleshy hawthorn. They suck the sap from the plant and produce a sticky substance called honeydew. The infested leaves turn yellow and fall off. The best way to manage scale insects is to scrape them off the plant with a fingernail or use insecticidal soap.
