Crataegus tanacetifolia: A Detailed Description
Crataegus tanacetifolia, also known as Tansy-leaved Thorn, is a species of hawthorn that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height and has a round or oval-shaped crown. The tree's bark is grayish-brown, and the branches are covered in thorns up to three centimeters long.
Origin and Habitat
The Tansy-leaved Thorn is native to the Mediterranean region and the Caucasus but can now be found in various parts of the world, including North America. It typically grows in rocky, dry, and sunny spots, including hillsides, pastures, and woodland edges.
Common Names
Aside from Tansy-leaved Thorn, Crataegus tanacetifolia is also known by other common names such as Tansy-leaved Hawthorn, Feathery Thorn, and Tanacetifolius Hawthorn.
Uses
The fruit of the Crataegus tanacetifolia is edible and is used for medicinal purposes, including treating various cardiovascular diseases. The bark and leaves of the tree are also used in traditional medicine to treat stomach ailments, diarrhea, and skin infections. The wood of the tree is hard and durable and is sometimes used for making handles for tools and implements.
Additionally, the Tansy-leaved Thorn is an important ornamental tree in landscaping due to its fragrant white flowers that bloom in early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its thorny branches also make it a popular choice for a natural barrier or hedge.
General Appearance
The leaves of the Tansy-leaved Thorn are deeply lobed and have a feathery appearance, with each leaflet being narrow and elongated. The flowers are small, and the fruits are a bright red color and are typically about a centimeter in diameter. The tree's overall appearance is that of a small, gnarled tree with thorny branches and a rounded canopy of feathery leaves.
In conclusion, Crataegus tanacetifolia is a useful and attractive tree with a rich history of medicinal and ornamental use.
Light Requirements
Crataegus tanacetifolia prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Lack of adequate sunlight might cause poor growth and weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in areas with moderate temperatures. Extremes of temperature, i.e. high or low temperature, can adversely affect the growth of Crataegus tanacetifolia. The plant starts to grow in the spring season, and the ideal temperature range for growth is between 15 to 21°C (59-70°F).
Soil Requirements
Crataegus tanacetifolia requires well-drained, fertile soil. The soil should have a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, sand, and chalky soils. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil, such as compost or manure, to improve soil fertility and structure. Additionally, the plant requires adequate moisture in the soil, but excessive moisture can lead to root rot, so be careful with overwatering.
Cultivation methods
Crataegus tanacetifolia, commonly known as Tansy-leaved Thorn, can be grown either from seeds or cutting. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in autumn. They can be sown directly outdoors in a well-draining soil in full sun or partial shade. The seedlings are thorny and may require some protection from herbivores. For cuttings, select healthy shoots from the parent plant, treat the cutting with rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep it moist and in bright, indirect light until it develops roots.
Watering Needs
Adequate watering plays a crucial role in the growth and development of Crataegus tanacetifolia plants. During the first year after planting, ensure to water the plant regularly, especially in hot and dry weather. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal water. Water the plant when the top surface of the soil is dry, but avoid overwatering, which may cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization can improve the growth and development of Crataegus tanacetifolia. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, during the growing season. The first application should be done in early spring before new growth, followed by another application in mid-summer. Always follow the recommended dosage to avoid fertilizer burn.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of Crataegus tanacetifolia. The best time to prune the plant is during the late winter to early spring while the plant is still dormant. Remove any damaged or diseased branches and excessive growth. The plant may require light pruning during the growing season to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too dense.
Propagation of Crataegus tanacetifolia
Crataegus tanacetifolia, commonly known as the Tangier hawthorn, is a flowering plant species native to northern Africa. It is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 4 meters tall and produces white or pink flowers in spring. The fruit of the plant is a small red pome.
Propagation Methods
There are several methods of propagating Crataegus tanacetifolia:
- Seed Propagation: The easiest method of propagating Crataegus tanacetifolia is through seed propagation. Collect the ripe fruit in autumn before it falls to the ground. Clean the seeds and stratify them in the refrigerator for three months. Plant the seeds in well-draining soil in spring after the last frost.
- Cuttings: Cuttings from softwood or semi-hardwood can be used to propagate Crataegus tanacetifolia. Take 15 cm cuttings in early summer from the new growth. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings warm and out of direct sunlight. The new plants will be ready for transplanting in the following spring.
- Division: Crataegus tanacetifolia can be propagated by dividing mature plants. Choose a healthy plant and carefully dig it up in autumn. Separate the root ball into two or more sections and replant each section immediately in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide protection from the elements until new growth appears.
Whichever method is used, it is important to ensure the plants receive sufficient water and nutrients during the establishment period. With proper care, new plants will grow and flourish, producing beautiful white or pink flowers in spring and a bountiful harvest of red pomes in autumn.
Disease Management
Crataegus tanacetifolia is prone to various diseases that can cause damage and reduce crop yield. Some of the common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Fruit rots: This disease can be caused by various fungal pathogens such as Botrytis cinerea, Penicillium spp., and Alternaria spp. It leads to the decay of fruits, and infected fruits turn brown and soft. To manage fruit rots, it is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, improve ventilation and reduce humidity, and practice good sanitation.
- Cedar-hawthorn rust: This disease is characterized by yellow spots on the leaves, and brownish-red lesions under the leaves. It is caused by rust fungi such as Gymnosporangium spp. The disease can be managed by removing infected plant material, using resistant cultivars, and practicing good sanitation.
- Leaf blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Diplocarpon mespili, which causes the leaves to turn yellow, wither, and drop prematurely. To manage leaf blight, it is essential to improve air circulation, reduce humidity, and remove and destroy infected plant parts.
Pest Management
Crataegus tanacetifolia can also be affected by various pests which can lead to significant crop damage. Some of the common pests that affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They can cause stunted growth, leaf curling, and wilting. Managing aphids involves using insecticidal soaps, pruning heavily infested parts, and using biological control agents.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and deformation of the leaves. Mites thrive in hot and dry conditions and can be managed by using acaricides, increasing air moisture, and providing adequate shade to the plants.
- Codling moth: These pests are the larvae of the codling moth and cause damage by tunneling through the fruits, making them inedible. To manage codling moths, it is crucial to use pheromone traps, prune affected plant parts, and use insecticides.
