Crataegus subvillosa - Description, Origin, Common Names and Uses
Crataegus subvillosa, commonly known as the Appalachian hawthorn, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). This plant species is native to the southeastern United States, specifically found in the southern Appalachian Mountains.
The Appalachian hawthorn is also commonly known as the "hawthorn" and "thornapple" due to its sharp, thorny branches. The plant typically grows up to 20 feet tall, although it can also grow as a smaller shrub. Its leaves are oval-shaped and toothed, with a glossy green appearance.
The tree produces clusters of white or pinkish flowers that bloom in the spring, followed by small red berries that ripen in the fall and can persist on the tree throughout the winter.
This plant species is valued for its ornamental qualities and has been used in many gardens and landscapes as an accent plant or for naturalizing areas. Hawthorn is also used in traditional medicine to support cardiovascular health, and as a supplement to help improve exercise performance.
Crataegus subvillosa is also an important food source for many bird species, including thrushes and bluebirds. The berries are known to be a favorite food of many bird species and can be used to attract birds to your yard.
Light requirements
Crataegus subvillosa is a shrub that prefers full sun to partial shade. It will grow well in areas with at least six hours of sunlight per day, but too much shade can result in poor growth and a less robust plant. If grown in a greenhouse, utilizing supplemental lighting can help to promote vigorous growth.
Temperature requirements
The plant is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in areas with a temperate climate. A cooler climate with an average temperature between 60 to 70°F is ideal for growth. The plant can withstand winter temperatures of up to -20°F and summer temperatures of up to 85°F. It is important to note that the plant is not drought tolerant and should be watered regularly in hot, dry weather.
Soil requirements
Crataegus subvillosa grows well in a variety of soil types, as long as the soil is well-draining. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH between 6 and 7.5. Soil that is too alkaline can cause nutrient deficiencies, while soil that is too acidic can cause toxicity problems. The plant requires good fertility, and regular application of a balanced fertilizer can help to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation
Crataegus subvillosa, commonly known as the Red hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to North America and typically grows in a range of habitats, including woodland edges, stream banks, and thickets. If you are planning to cultivate this plant, ensure it is well-suited to your soil type and climatic conditions. Ideally, the planting site should receive full sun or partial shade and have well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
Watering Needs
Crataegus subvillosa requires consistent soil moisture, especially during the first growing season. Water the plant deeply and regularly, particularly during prolonged dry periods when the soil is likely to dry out. To prevent root rot, avoid waterlogging the soil. You can achieve this by ensuring the soil adequately drains water while also providing enough organic matter to retain moisture.
Fertilization
While Crataegus subvillosa is relatively hardy, it will benefit from regular fertilization. You can fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring or fall. The amount of fertilizer applied will depend on the size of the plant. Typically, you should add one pound of fertilizer per inch of trunk diameter measured at six inches above the ground. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label to avoid over-fertilization or under-fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape, size, and health of Crataegus subvillosa. You can prune the plant in the late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant. Use sharp and sterile pruning tools to make clean cuts and prevent the spread of disease. Begin by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Next, thin the plant by removing crowded or crossing branches. Finally, prune the plant for shape and size by cutting back any unwanted growth. Remember to avoid pruning more than a third of the plant's total growth to prevent stress.
Propagation of Crataegus Subvillosa
Crataegus subvillosa, commonly known as the Red Haw, can be propagated through several methods, such as seed propagation, softwood cutting, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common method for Red Haw. The plant produces fruit that contains seeds, which can be collected during the fall season. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until spring before they are planted. Before planting the seeds, they can be scarified or stratified to improve germination rates. Scarification involves breaking or weakening the seed coat, and stratification involves exposing the seeds to cold temperatures to simulate winter conditions. The seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and they should sprout in 3-4 weeks.
Softwood Cutting
Softwood cutting is another method to propagate Crataegus subvillosa. In late spring or early summer, cut 4-6 inch long branches from the plant's current season's growth. Remove all but the top two leaves and dip the cut ends into rooting hormone powder. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix with proper moisture and warmth. The rooting process should complete in 6-8 weeks, and the newly rooted plants can be transplanted into larger containers or a garden after that.
Grafting
Grafting is another way to propagate Crataegus subvillosa. It is the process of joining a scion of a desired cultivar onto a rootstock of a closely related species. This method ensures that the propagated plant maintains the desirable character of the parent plant. It also allows for the production of a cultivar that is not easily grown from seed or cutting. In the case of Red Haw, grafting may help create an improved variety, or change and stabilize the character of the plant.
Disease Management
Crataegus subvillosa is susceptible to several diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. The common diseases include:
- Cedar Rust: This fungal disease causes orange spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. Cedar rust can be controlled by pruning out infected areas and applying a fungicide.
- Fire Blight: This bacterial disease causes wilting and blackening of twigs and leaves. Fire blight can be controlled by removing affected plant parts, using a copper-based fungicide, and maintaining good airflow around the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes black or brown spots on the leaves. Leaf spot can be controlled by picking up fallen leaves and using fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a whitish-gray coating on leaves and can reduce plant growth and yield. Powdery mildew can be controlled by keeping the plant foliage dry and using a fungicide.
- Phytophthora Root Rot: This fungal disease causes root rot, which can lead to plant death. Phytophthora root rot can be prevented by planting the tree in well-draining soil, avoiding overwatering, and using fungicide.
Pest Management
Crataegus subvillosa is also attacked by several pests that can cause damage to the plant. The common pests include:
- Japanese Beetle: This beetle feeds on the foliage of the plant and can cause significant defoliation. Japanese beetles can be controlled by handpicking them off the plant or using an insecticide.
- Tent Caterpillars: These caterpillars create webs on the tree's branches and can cause significant defoliation. Tent caterpillars can be controlled by removing the webs and using an insecticide.
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and curled leaves. Aphids can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or by introducing natural predators like ladybugs.
- Mites: These tiny pests feed on plant tissue and can cause stippling and discoloration of leaves. Mites can be controlled by using a miticide.
Regular inspection of the plant and taking appropriate measures for disease and pest management can reduce the damage and help the plant grow healthy.
