Origin
Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata (Sarg.) Palmer, also known as green hawthorn, is a plant species that belongs to the hawthorn family Rosaceae. This plant is native to the eastern region of North America, specifically in the southeast United States, including Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and others.
Common Names
Green hawthorn, wild hawthorn, thornapple, mountain haw, and black haw.
Uses
The green hawthorn has been used for various medicinal purposes such as increasing blood circulation, reducing blood pressure, and aiding digestion. The Native Americans used its bark, leaves, and berries to treat heart problems, diarrhea, and intestinal problems. The plant is also grown for its ornamental and landscaping value. It is also considered a good plant for habitat restoration and erosion control in riparian areas. The thorns in the plant also serve as protection against grazing and browsing.
General Appearance
The green hawthorn is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 10 meters high. The plant bears a thorny branched stem and has small green leaves that are alternate and lanceolate in shape. The plant blooms in May to June with clusters of white flowers that grow up to 12 cm wide. The flowers are pollinated by insects. The plant produces red to black fruit that resembles small apples in the late summer and fall.
Light requirements
The Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata (Sarg.) Palmer requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth and development. It is not recommended to plant this species in shaded areas as it may hinder its growth and affect its flowering.
Temperature requirements
The Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata (Sarg.) Palmer thrives in regions with a temperate climate. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers moderate temperatures between 15°C to 25°C. It may not survive extreme temperatures such as frost or intense heat waves.
Soil requirements
The Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata (Sarg.) Palmer can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-draining soils with adequate moisture retention. It can tolerate soils that range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. The species also benefits from soils with high organic matter content.
Cultivation methods
Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as green hawthorn, is a small tree that belongs to the rose family. It grows best in well-drained soils that have a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0. The plant prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade. It is essential to choose a planting location that can accommodate the expected mature size of the tree.
The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. To propagate from seeds, they should undergo cold stratification for a few months before planting in the soil. Plant cuttings taken from the tree in early summer will develop roots within a few months when treated with a rooting hormone.
Watering needs
The green hawthorn is drought tolerant, but it needs regular watering during the first few years of growth until the roots have become established. The plant requires about one inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. However, the root system should not be waterlogged as excess water can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Green hawthorn is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from a small amount of balanced fertilizer applied in the early spring before new growth begins. An organic mulch layer spread over the soil around the plant can also provide nutrients to the tree.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the plant's shape and promote new growth. The green hawthorn can tolerate heavy pruning, which makes it an ideal candidate for hedges or topiaries. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Dead or diseased branches can also be removed at any time of the year.
Propagation of Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolate (Sarg.) Palmer
Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolate (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as green hawthorn, is a shrub species that belongs to the Rosaceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods, including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and grafting propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the cheapest and easiest method of propagation for Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolate (Sarg.) Palmer. The seeds can be collected from mature fruits in late summer or early autumn. To propagate from seeds, soak them in water for 24 hours before planting them in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2-3 times their diameter. Keep the soil moist and warm, and germination should occur within 2-3 months.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method that can be employed to propagate Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolate (Sarg.) Palmer. This method involves taking cuttings from a healthy mother plant and rooting them. Hardwood cuttings should be taken in late autumn and winter when the plant is dormant. The cuttings should be 15-18 cm long and should have three to four nodes. Dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone before planting it in a pot with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and rooting should occur within two to three months.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting propagation is the most efficient method for propagating Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolate (Sarg.) Palmer as it allows for the production of identical offspring. This method involves joining a scion (stem cutting) from the desired plant variety with a compatible rootstock. It is advisable to use a one-year-old rootstock that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the scion. The graft should be done in spring or early summer.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata (Sarg.) Palmer
Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as Lanceleaf Hawthorn or Green Hawthorn, is a hardy and adaptable plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, it is not immune to all plant diseases and pests. As a gardening enthusiast, it is essential to be aware of the common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and know how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spots: Leaf spots caused by fungal infections are one of the most common diseases that affect Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata. These leaf spots appear as brown or black circular spots on leaves and can cause them to drop prematurely. To manage this disease, it is essential to keep the plant area clean by removing fallen leaves and branches. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and provide adequate air circulation to prevent the spread of fungal spores.
Cedar Hawthorn Rust: Cedar hawthorn rust is another fungal disease that affects Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata. The symptoms of this disease include yellow spots on leaves, followed by the development of orange or red spots on the lower surface of the leaf. The best way to manage this disease is to plant resistant cultivars of the plant. If the plant is already infected, ensure to remove the infected leaves, and use fungicides to prevent further spread.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that can cause the leaves of Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata to become covered in a white powdery substance. It can cause the leaves to yellow, distort, and eventually drop. It is crucial to provide adequate air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and keep the plant area clean to prevent this disease from occurring. Fungicides can be used to manage the disease if it has already occurred.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that often attack Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata. They feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to yellow, and eventually drop. These pests are common in dry and hot conditions. Regular watering and the use of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can help manage spider mites.
Japanese Beetles: Japanese beetles are another common pest that can damage the foliage of Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata. They feed on the leaves, often leaving behind a skeleton of veins. One way to manage these pests is to handpick them off the plant. Alternatively, neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to manage a severe infestation.
Aphids: Aphids are sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth and yellowed leaves on Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata. The best way to manage aphids is to use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Additionally, natural predators like ladybugs can help control the aphid population.
Overall, the key to managing diseases and pests in Crataegus viridis L. var. lanceolata is to maintain plant hygiene and a healthy environment. Regular inspection and timely treatment can help keep the plant healthy and thriving.
