Overview: Crataegus Tantula Sarg.
Crataegus Tantula Sarg. is a plant species belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is a small tree or a large shrub that is commonly found in the eastern and central parts of the United States.
Common Names:
The common names for Crataegus Tantula Sarg. include wheatland hawthorn and low hawthorn, among others. The plant was named after Wheatland, Wyoming, where it was discovered in the 19th century.
General Appearance:
The plant's height usually ranges from 6 to 15 feet tall, with a width of approximately 12 feet. It has a dense canopy of dark green leaves that turn reddish-purple in autumn. The flowers are white, with five petals blooming in late spring, which attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The fruits produced on the plant are bright red, 0.5 inches in diameter, and have a slightly bittersweet taste.
Uses:
The plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes to alleviate heart problems, digestive issues, and anxiety. It is also used as an ornamental plant in landscaping and gardening due to its beautiful white flowers and vibrant red fruits. The fruits are edible and have been used to make jelly, syrup, and wine. The plant is an essential component of wildlife habitat, where birds and small mammals are attracted to its fruits.
Growth Conditions for Crataegus tantula Sarg.
Crataegus tantula Sarg. is a small tree species that is native to North America. To ensure optimal growth, several environmental factors must be considered.
Light Requirements
Crataegus tantula Sarg. requires full sun to flourish. It can tolerate partial shade, but full sun is ideal. If this plant is grown in an area that receives less than six hours of direct sunlight per day, it may not produce as many fruits as it would in a sunnier location.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus tantula Sarg. thrives in a temperate climate. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) in the winter months, and temperatures as high as 90°F (32°C) in the summer months. It is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Crataegus tantula Sarg. are quite flexible, as it can tolerate a range of soil types. However, the soil must be well-draining and relatively fertile. This plant can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils with a pH of 5.0 to 7.5. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil before planting to enhance the soil's fertility.
In summary, Crataegus tantula Sarg. requires full sun exposure, a temperate climate, and well-draining, fertile soil to thrive. Following these conditions will enable this small tree species to grow and produce abundant fruits.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus tantula Sarg., also known as Scarlet hawthorn, is a small tree that prefers full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of soils, but it thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
The tree is drought tolerant once established and needs minimal maintenance. It can grow up to 20 feet tall with a spread of 10-15 feet, so it is important to give it enough space to grow.
Watering Needs
Scarlet hawthorn requires moderate watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot. In hotter climates, frequent watering may be necessary to keep the soil consistently moist. Mulching around the base of the tree can help keep the soil moist and also suppress weeds.
During the dormant season, the tree requires less watering, but it is important to keep the soil from completely drying out. Watering once every two weeks should be sufficient.
Fertilization
Crataegus tantula Sarg. does not require much fertilization. A yearly application of a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14, in the early spring should be sufficient. Over-fertilization can result in weak growth and susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for the health of the tree but can be done for aesthetic purposes or to control its size. The best time to prune is during the late winter or early spring while the tree is still dormant. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches using clean, sharp pruning shears. To maintain the natural shape of the tree, avoid heavy pruning and only trim small branches.
Regular pruning can increase air circulation, light penetration, and fruit production. It can also help manage pest and disease problems by removing infected or infested branches. It is important to sanitize your pruning tools after each use to prevent the spread of disease between trees.
Propagation of Crataegus Tantula Sarg.
Crataegus tantula Sarg. is typically propagated through seeds, root cuttings, and by grafting onto rootstock of other Crataegus species.
Seed propagation
The propagation of Crataegus tantula Sarg. through seeds is the most common method. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruit after it has fallen naturally from the tree. The fruit should be cleaned, and the seeds should be separated and air-dried for a week or so before sowing. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started in containers indoors. If starting indoors, sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm place. Once the seeds start to germinate, they can be transplanted into larger containers or outdoors.
Root cuttings
Propagation of Crataegus tantula Sarg. through root cuttings can be done in winter or early spring. Take cuttings of non-flowering stems, and make sure each cutting is at least 15 cm long. Cuttings should be made from a 2 to 3-year-old plant to ensure their quality. Place the cuttings in a sterilized, well-draining soil mix, with the bottom end of the cutting 2 to 3 cm deep. Ensure that the soil is kept moist and the cutting is in a shaded location. Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted into a larger container or planted in the ground.
Grafting
The grafting of Crataegus tantula Sarg. onto rootstock of other Crataegus species can be done in late winter or early spring. Take a cutting from the desired cultivar or plant, and graft it onto the rootstock of another Crataegus species. The rootstock should be a compatible variety and be at least 1 year old. Once the graft has been made, it should be covered with grafting wax or tape to protect the joint. After about a year, the tree will be established and can be planted in its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus Tantula Sarg.
Crataegus Tantula Sarg., also known as the dwarf hawthorn, is a small, multi-stemmed deciduous tree that is native to the United States. Although it is relatively disease and pest-resistant, there are still some common issues that can affect the plant.
Common Diseases
Fire blight is a bacterial disease that can cause dieback of the plant. Symptoms include blackened leaves and twigs, and cankers on the bark. To manage fire blight, prune infected branches and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes black or brown spots on the plant's leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and ensure the plant has good drainage.
Common Pests
The hawthorn lace bug is a common pest that can damage the foliage of the plant. Symptoms include yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage hawthorn lace bugs, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap.
The eastern tent caterpillar is another common pest that can defoliate the plant in large numbers. To manage eastern tent caterpillars, remove the tents and prune infected branches.
Overall, Crataegus Tantula Sarg. is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, it is important to monitor the plant for any signs of issues and take action promptly to prevent further damage.
