Origin
Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer is a type of hawthorn plant that is native to the southeastern United States, including states such as Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, and Georgia.
Common Names
Some common names for Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer include the black hawthorn, southern hawthorn, and rusty hawthorn.
Uses
The plant has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes. The bark and roots are often used to make teas or tonics to treat a range of ailments, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, and menstrual pain. Some Native American tribes also used the plant as a natural contraceptive.
In addition, the fruit of the Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer can be eaten and is often used to make jams and jellies. The wood of the plant is also used in furniture making and as a source of fuel.
General Appearance
The Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer is a deciduous shrub or small tree that typically grows to be 20-30 feet tall. The leaves are oval-shaped and have serrated edges, with a glossy green color on the upper surface and pale on the underside. The bark of the plant is gray-brown and smooth, with occasional horizontal ridges. In spring, the plant produces clusters of small white flowers, which later turn into small, red fruits in the fall.
Light requirements
Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer typically grows in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, but too much direct sunlight can be harmful. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the tree in an area with dappled shade or partial shade for best growth and development.
Temperature requirements
The plant is native to North America, and it typically enjoys a temperate climate. It grows best in areas with a USDA hardiness zone of 3-8, where temperatures typically range from -40 to 15 degrees Celsius (-40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit). The tree can withstand cold temperatures but may require extra protection in areas with harsh winters.
Soil requirements
Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH ranges between 6.0 -7.5. The tree prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil but can tolerate mildly alkaline soils. Heavy, poorly-draining soils should be avoided as they may lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as Green hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It grows well in USDA climate zones 5-8, where it is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. To cultivate Green hawthorn, start by selecting a suitable location that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day and has well-drained soil.
The best time to plant Green hawthorn is in the fall or early spring. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball, and place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Water the plant thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. During the first year, water regularly to encourage root establishment.
Watering Needs
Green hawthorn requires moderate watering, and the frequency depends on the climate, soil type, and season. The plant should be watered deeply, and the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases, while underwatering can cause stress and affect growth. To check if the plant needs water, stick your finger in the soil; if it feels dry up to a depth of two inches, it's time to water.
Fertilization
The Green hawthorn plant is not a heavy feeder, and in most cases, it can do well without fertilizers. However, if you notice slow growth or yellowing leaves, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once in early spring before new growth appears. Use a slow-release fertilizer and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the application rate.
Pruning
Pruning Green hawthorn is essential for maintaining its shape and promoting healthy growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and prune back any crossing or rubbing branches. To encourage flowering and fruiting, prune the plant lightly, removing only the tips of the branches. Avoid heavy pruning as it can reduce flowering and fruiting in the following season.
Propagation of Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer
Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as the green hawthorn, is propagated using various methods. The propagation of this plant can be achieved through seeds, hardwood cuttings, softwood cuttings, root cuttings, and layering.
Seed propagation
The seeds obtained from ripe fruits of the green hawthorn can be used for propagation. The seeds need to be extracted and sown in a well-prepared seedbed after removing the flesh. The ideal time for sowing the seeds is in the fall to early winter. The seeds must be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered frequently to maintain moisture. The germination of the seeds usually takes place in the spring.
Hardwood cutting propagation
The hardwood cuttings taken from the green hawthorn are about 8-10 inches in length and are collected in the late fall during the plant's dormant period. The cuttings are treated with rooting hormones and planted in well-draining soil. The soil needs to be kept slightly moist, and rooting of the cuttings should occur within six weeks.
Softwood cutting propagation
The softwood cuttings taken from the green hawthorn are collected in the spring or early summer. The cuttings are taken from new growth and about 4-6 inches in length. They are immediately dipped in rooting hormones and planted in moist soil. The soil should be kept slightly moist, and rooting usually occurs within four weeks.
Root cutting propagation
Root cuttings are taken from the roots of the parent plant in late fall or early winter while the plant is in its dormant period. The roots are about 3-4 inches in length and are planted horizontally in loose soil. The soil should be kept slightly moist, and new plants will emerge from the roots within a few weeks.
Layering propagation
Layering is the process of bending a lower branch of the parent plant to the ground and covering the part of the branch with soil. The branch should be wounded slightly before it is covered with soil to promote rooting. The layer is left in place for a year, and a new plant will emerge from the branch the following year.
Disease Management
Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer is susceptible to certain diseases that can damage the plant or even kill it. Some common diseases to watch out for are:
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease causes the leaves and twigs to turn brown or black, and often has a scorched appearance. It can quickly spread throughout the entire plant and kill it within a few weeks. To manage fire blight, prune infected branches several inches below the disease and dispose of them in the trash. Do not compost infected plant material.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes dark spots to appear on the leaves, which can eventually lead to defoliation and weakening of the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to reduce moisture on the plant.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes orange or brown spots on the leaves, which turn black and fall off. Rust can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to other diseases. To manage rust, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant.
Prevention is key when it comes to disease management. Proper plant care, including regular watering, fertilization, and pruning, can help the plant stay healthy and better resist disease. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the plant and ensure it has good air circulation and access to sunlight.
Pest Management
Crataegus viridis L. var. ovata (Sarg.) Palmer is also susceptible to certain pests that can weaken or damage the plant. Some common pests to watch out for are:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cluster on the undersides of leaves and cause them to curl. Aphids can also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts other pests and can lead to mold growth. To manage aphids, try spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off, or use an insecticidal soap or oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny, translucent pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves and fine webbing on the plant. Spider mites can quickly reproduce and infest the entire plant. To manage spider mites, use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap and ensure the plant is properly hydrated.
- Scale: These small, round insects can cluster on the stems and leaves of the plant and cause yellowing or stunted growth. Scale can also excrete honeydew and attract other pests. To manage scale, use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, or gently scrape them off with a fingernail or toothbrush.
Like with disease management, prevention is also key when it comes to pest management. Regularly inspect the plant for pests and remove any infected or infested plant material promptly. Additionally, avoid overfertilizing the plant and ensure it has proper watering and drainage to avoid stress, which can make it more susceptible to pests.
