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Description
Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens, commonly known as the English hawthorn, is a deciduous tree or shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The plant is native to Europe and has been widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The tree can grow up to 6 meters in height and has a spread of around 4 meters. The plant has a dense, rounded crown and thorny branches. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have an oval shape. The flowers bloom in late spring and are white, pink, or red in color. The fruit is a small, round, red berry that ripens in autumn and is edible but not commonly consumed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Crataegus |
Appearance
The Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens has a unique appearance that makes it a popular ornamental plant. The tree or shrub has a dense, rounded crown that is covered in thorns. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have an oval shape. The flowers are white, pink, or red and bloom in late spring. The fruit is a small, round, red berry that ripens in autumn and adds to the tree’s ornamental value. The plant’s thorny branches make it an excellent choice for hedges or as a barrier plant.
Care Guide
The Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens requires specific care to thrive in your garden. Below are the care tips for this plant:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to poor plant growth and reduced flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that has a slightly acidic pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be compacted.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and appearance. Below are some of the common pests and diseases:
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease causes the leaves and branches of the plant to wilt and turn black. The disease is spread by insects and can be prevented by pruning infected branches and using disease-resistant cultivars.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. The disease is spread by splashing water and can be prevented by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distorted growth and reduced flowering. The pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soaps or introducing natural predators like ladybugs.
Habitat
The Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens is native to Europe and can be found growing in various habitats, including forests, fields, and hedgerows. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can grow in full sun or partial shade. The plant is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and can be found in gardens, parks, and public spaces.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but not commonly consumed.
Q: Can the Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens be used as a hedge plant?
A: Yes, the plant’s thorny branches make it an excellent choice for hedges or as a barrier plant.
Q: What is the optimal growing condition for the Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens?
A: The plant prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering during the growing season.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect the Crataegus Persimilis Prunifolia Splendens?
A: The plant is susceptible to fire blight, leaf spot, and aphids.
Related Plants
- Crataegus laevigata
- Crataegus monogyna
- Crataegus crus-galli
- Crataegus viridis
References
- “Crataegus persimilis ‘Prunifolia Splendens’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n270
- “Crataegus persimilis ‘Prunifolia Splendens’.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/138852/Crataegus-persimilis-Prunifolia-Splendens/Details
- “Crataegus persimilis Prunifolia Splendens.” Plant Encyclopedia. https://plant encyclopedia.netlify.app/plants/crataegus-persimilis-prunifolia-splendens/
