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Description
Crataegus Douglasii, commonly known as Douglas hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to western North America, including British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, California, and Nevada. This plant is named after David Douglas, a Scottish botanist who discovered it in the 19th century.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Crataegus |
Appearance
The Douglas hawthorn can grow up to 30 feet tall and 25 feet wide. It has a dense, rounded crown with a spreading, irregular shape. The leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green, measuring about 2-3 inches long. The flowers are white, fragrant, and appear in clusters in late spring or early summer. The fruit of the plant is a red or orange-red pome, measuring about 1/2 to 3/4 inches in diameter, and is edible but not commonly consumed by humans.
Care Guide
The Douglas hawthorn prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Afterward, water the plant only during prolonged droughts. Fertilize the plant in spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches.
The Douglas hawthorn is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Douglas hawthorn is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, fire blight, and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, ensure proper air circulation by pruning the plant regularly and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
The Douglas hawthorn is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. It is often used in landscaping for its attractive flowers and fruits.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Douglas hawthorn edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but not commonly consumed by humans.
Q: What is the best time to prune the Douglas hawthorn?
A: Late winter or early spring is the best time to prune the plant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Douglas hawthorn?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect the Douglas hawthorn?
A: The plant can be susceptible to leaf spot, fire blight, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Crataegus monogyna
- Crataegus laevigata
- Crataegus phaenopyrum
- Crataegus crus-galli
References
- “Crataegus douglasii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a869.
- “Crataegus douglasii.” Plant Database, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CRDO3.
- “Douglas Hawthorn.” Oregon State University Extension, 2015, https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/catalog/files/project/pdf/ec1305.pdf.
