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Description
Crataegus Laevigata, also known as smooth hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and can grow up to 10 meters tall. The plant has a dense, spiny crown and produces white or pink flowers in the spring. The flowers are followed by red or black berries that attract birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Crataegus |
Appearance
The smooth hawthorn has a dense, spiny crown with a rounded or conical shape. The leaves are oval-shaped with serrated edges and can grow up to 6 cm long. The plant produces white or pink flowers that are about 1 cm wide and have five petals. The flowers are followed by red or black berries that are about 1 cm in diameter. The bark is brown-grey and becomes rough with age.
Care Guide
The smooth hawthorn is relatively easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can also grow in partial shade. The plant requires regular watering during the first year of growth but can then tolerate periods of drought. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The smooth hawthorn is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The smooth hawthorn is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but can be affected by fire blight, leaf spot, and rust. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant. To prevent these problems, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Prune any infected or damaged branches immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
The smooth hawthorn is native to Europe and Western Asia and can be found growing in hedgerows, woodlands, and open fields. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can also grow in partial shade. The plant is often used for hedgerows and as a landscape plant due to its attractive flowers and berries.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the smooth hawthorn be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the smooth hawthorn can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Can the smooth hawthorn be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the smooth hawthorn can be propagated from cuttings taken in the summer.
Q: Do smooth hawthorns attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the berries of the smooth hawthorn attract birds and other wildlife.
Q: Does the smooth hawthorn have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the smooth hawthorn has been used in traditional medicine to treat heart and digestive problems.
Related Plants
- Crataegus Monogyna
- Crataegus Pinnatifida
- Crataegus Sanguinea
- Crataegus Azarolus
References
- “Crataegus laevigata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286567.
- “Crataegus laevigata.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crataegus+laevigata.
- “Smooth hawthorn.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/100994/i-Crataegus-laevigata-i/Details.
