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Description
Crataegus Punctata, commonly known as dotted hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to eastern North America and can grow up to 6-10 feet tall. The plant produces small, white flowers in early summer, followed by bright red fruit in the fall. The fruit is edible and can be used to make jelly or wine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Crataegus |
Appearance
Crataegus Punctata has a dense, rounded canopy and a spreading growth habit. Its leaves are lobed, toothed, and alternate, reaching up to 2-3 inches long. The bark is gray and smooth, becoming rough with age. The plant produces small, white flowers in early summer, followed by bright red fruit in the fall. The fruit is about 1/2 inch in diameter and contains one to three seeds.
Care Guide
Crataegus Punctata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate drought once established. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crataegus Punctata is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including fire blight, leaf spot, and apple maggot. Fire blight can cause dieback of the plant’s branches, while leaf spot can cause defoliation. Apple maggot can cause damage to the fruit. To prevent these issues, prune the plant to improve air circulation, remove infected plant parts, and apply appropriate pesticides as needed.
Habitat
Crataegus Punctata is native to eastern North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, fields, and roadsides. The plant is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in both wet and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Crataegus Punctata be grown in containers?
A: It is possible to grow Crataegus Punctata in containers, but it may not reach its full size and may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Is Crataegus Punctata deer-resistant?
A: Crataegus Punctata is not considered deer-resistant and may be damaged by deer browsing.
Q: How often should Crataegus Punctata be pruned?
A: Crataegus Punctata can be pruned in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased wood and to shape the plant.
Q: Is Crataegus Punctata toxic to pets?
A: The fruit of Crataegus Punctata is not toxic to pets, but the seeds and leaves may cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.
Related Plants
- Crataegus laevigata (English hawthorn)
- Crataegus monogyna (common hawthorn)
- Crataegus viridis (green hawthorn)
References
- “Crataegus Punctata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284090.
- “Dotted Hawthorn.” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/dot_hawthorn.htm.
- “Fire Blight.” University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources, www2.ipm.ucanr.edu/agriculture/apple/Fire-Blight/.
