Dotted Hawthorn
crataegus punctata
Also known as: ["Doublefile Hawthorn","Dotted Cockspur Hawthorn"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to North America, known for its showy white flowers and red fruit, often used in landscaping for ornamental purposes.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Crataegus |
| Botanical Name: | Crataegus punctata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various soil types
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate spacing for air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter in spring; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cool winters and moderate summers.
Monitor microclimates; use frost protection in early spring; water early to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; dilute liquid fertilizers to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly planted specimens.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer or seed propagation in fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; fall for seeds after fruit ripening.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F) for cuttings; cold stratification required for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; peat moss for seed germination.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, plastic bags or propagator, heat mat.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk; heading cuts to shorten branches for shape.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove deadwood, and encourage airflow; focus on structural improvement and fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw, disinfectant (bleach solution).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or crossing branches; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown specimens to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if pot-bound; use fresh soil mix; water well after repotting; avoid fertilizing for 4–6 weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, and allow excess water to drain freely to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and maximize absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during growing season; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows; buds may fail to open; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap or frost cloth in extreme cold; ensure good air circulation to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch or yellowing; reduced flowering and fruiting.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH; apply fertilizer in spring; water before and after application; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Crataegus punctata can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion in large amounts may lead to mild systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Crataegus punctata can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion in large amounts may lead to mild systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Crataegus punctata contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon digestion. Ingestion in large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal distress and mild systemic effects due to cyanide exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crataegus punctata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruit.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Crataegus punctata?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance, suitable for those with some gardening experience.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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