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Description
Crataegus Uniflora, commonly known as the dwarf hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide. The shrub produces clusters of white flowers in late spring and early summer, followed by small red berries that persist into the winter. The leaves are dark green with serrated edges and turn yellow in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Crataegus |
Appearance
The dwarf hawthorn is a small, bushy shrub with a rounded shape. It has dark green leaves that are about 2 inches long and 1 inch wide, with serrated edges. The shrub produces clusters of white flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter in late spring and early summer. The flowers are followed by small red berries that are about 1/4 inch in diameter and persist into the winter. The shrub’s bark is grayish-brown and has a rough texture.
Care Guide
The dwarf hawthorn is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
Water
Water the shrub deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Fertilization
Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Soil
The dwarf hawthorn prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sand.
Sunlight
The shrub prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The dwarf hawthorn is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The dwarf hawthorn is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
Pests
- Aphids
- Scales
Diseases
- Cedar rust
- Fire blight
Habitat
The dwarf hawthorn is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and along streams and rivers. It prefers moist, well-draining soils and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the dwarf hawthorn edible?
A: The berries of the dwarf hawthorn are edible but are not commonly consumed due to their small size and tart flavor.
Q: Can the dwarf hawthorn be used for landscaping?
A: Yes, the dwarf hawthorn is a popular choice for landscaping due to its low-maintenance nature and attractive flowers and berries.
Q: How often should the dwarf hawthorn be pruned?
A: The shrub can be pruned in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing branches.
Q: How long does the dwarf hawthorn live?
A: The dwarf hawthorn can live up to 20 years with proper care.
Related Plants
- Crataegus laevigata (English hawthorn)
- Crataegus monogyna (single-seeded hawthorn)
- Crataegus phaenopyrum (Washington hawthorn)
References
- “Crataegus uniflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f300.
- “Dwarf Hawthorn.” National Wildlife Federation, www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Plants-and-Fungi/Dwarf-Hawthorn.
- “Crataegus uniflora.” Plant Database, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CRUN.
