Crataemespilus Grandiflora × Crataemespilus grandiflora
ABOUT
× Crataemespilus grandiflora, commonly known as the oakleaf mountain ash, is a unique ornamental plant that exhibits a blend of characteristics from its parental lineage. Visually striking, its leaves are similar to those of an oak, with lobed margins that create a textured, layered effect throughout the foliage. The leaves often boast a glossy green appearance which can turn to hues of red and orange, giving a vibrant display of autumn color before they fall. The plant is celebrated for its large, showy flowers that typically bloom in the spring. These flowers tend to have a white color and can be quite fragrant, attracting various pollinators to the garden. Following the flowering period, the oakleaf mountain ash may produce fruit. The fruit typically takes the form of small, berry-like pomes that can range in color, possibly adding yet another layer of visual interest to the plant. In terms of habit, the oakleaf mountain ash possesses a somewhat structured yet free-form shape, allowing it to often be used as a focal point in garden design. The bark of the plant may also add ornamental value with its distinctive texture and coloration that varies from its progenitors. Overall, the oakleaf mountain ash is praised for its decorative leaves, attractive blooms, and potential for fruit, which together create a year-round interest in landscapes where it is cultivated.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Oakleaf Hydrangea
Common names
× Crataemespilus grandiflora.
ToxicityTo humans
× Crataemespilus grandiflora is commonly known as the "Dumortier's Hawthorn-Medlar." Currently, there is limited information available regarding the toxicity of this specific intergeneric hybrid to humans. Generally, both parental genera, Crataegus (hawthorn) and Mespilus (medlar), produce fruit that is considered safe to eat. However, as with any plant, individuals may have differing sensitivities, and it is advisable to exercise caution and seek expert advice before ingesting any plant material that is not widely recognized as edible. If toxic, symptoms would likely be similar to those of plant poisoning, which can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, more serious symptoms could ensue. But since definitive toxicity information on × Crataemespilus grandiflora is not readily available, it is recommended to avoid ingestion until more is known.
To pets
× Crataemespilus grandiflora, commonly referred to as "Dumortier's Hawthorn-Medlar," has no specific documented evidence on its toxicity to pets. Hawthorns (Crataegus) and medlars (Mespilus) are usually not considered toxic to pets, and in many cases, their fruits are edible. Nonetheless, without concrete information on this particular hybrid, it is prudent to prevent pets from ingesting any parts of the plant. If the hybrid were to be toxic, symptoms in pets might mirror those typical of plant poisoning, which could range from mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea to more severe effects depending on the quantity ingested and the sensitivity of the individual pet. To ensure the safety of pets, it is best to err on the side of caution and keep this plant out of their reach.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters)
Spread
8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits```html
- Ornamental Value: The hybrid nature of × Crataemespilus grandiflora, commonly known as the Crataemespilus, offers an appealing appearance for decorative purposes due to its unique foliage and flowering characteristics.
- Shade Provider: Mature Crataemespilus trees can offer a significant canopy, providing shade and cooler areas in gardens and landscapes.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The flowers and fruits of the Crataemespilus attract various species of birds and insects, creating a vibrant ecosystem.
- Erosion Control: The root system of Crataemespilus can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in certain landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: With its seasonal changes in foliage and fruit, Crataemespilus adds year-round interest to gardens, with flowers in spring and fruits in autumn.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangements: The flowers of Crataemespilus grandiflora, also known as Hawthorn-Medlar, can be used in floral arrangements thanks to their large and attractive blooms, providing a natural and rustic aesthetic to bouquets and centerpieces.
- Wildlife Habitat: The dense foliage and branching of Hawthorn-Medlar can provide nesting sites and shelter for birds and other small wildlife seeking refuge and breeding grounds.
- Educational Tool: Botany students and enthusiasts can study the unique graft hybrid characteristics of Hawthorn-Medlar to understand practical applications of plant hybridization and grafting techniques.
- Culinary Experiments: While not commonly consumed, the fruit of Hawthorn-Medlar could potentially be used in culinary experiments, considering they are from edible parent species, though they may require preparation to make them palatable.
- Photographic Subject: The distinctive appearance of Hawthorn-Medlar flowers makes them an ideal subject for photographers, especially those specializing in plants and nature photography.
- Live Fencing: The thorny branches of Hawthorn-Medlar can be grown as a live fence or hedge, offering a natural barrier that deters trespassers and larger wildlife due to its impenetrable nature.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the intricate flowers and unique form of Hawthorn-Medlar for various forms of artwork, including painting, sculpture, and textile designs.
- Crafting Material: Its wood, when available, could be used in crafting for small projects, such as carving, due to the potential hardness and fine grain inherited from its hawthorn parentage.
- Seasonal Decor: Branches laden with fruit can be used for autumnal and winter decorations, adding a unique twist to traditional seasonal decor with their unusual fruits.
- Soil Improvement: As a plant that grows well in various soils, it could potentially be used in rotation or companion planting to help improve soil structure and health over time, although specific scientific studies might be needed to substantiate this use.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Duchesnea indica is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Duchesnea indica is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hybrid Vitality: × Crataemespilus grandiflora, commonly known as the Hawthorn Medlar, is a hybrid plant. Its symbolism often represents the vigor and strength that can arise from combining diverse elements, reflecting the fusion of characteristics from its parent species, Crataegus and Mespilus.
- Resilience: Like its hawthorn parentage, the Hawthorn Medlar may symbolize resilience and the ability to endure challenging conditions, as hawthorns are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in difficult environments.
- Protection: Hawthorns have been traditionally thought to offer protection, which may extend to the hybrid Hawthorn Medlar, symbolizing safety and shelter.
- Rarity: As a less common hybrid, the Hawthorn Medlar can represent uniqueness or the value of rarity, celebrating the uncommon and the exceptional.
- Beauty in Complexity: The intricate flowers of the Hawthorn Medlar showcase the beauty that can be found in complexity, mirroring the multifaceted nature of life and relationships.
WaterThe Dumont's Hawthorn needs consistent moisture, especially during its growing and blooming seasons in spring and summer. Water this plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between waterings. During hotter months, you may need to increase the frequency to twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons each time, depending on the size and maturity of the plant. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, according to weather conditions and the plant's appearance.
LightDumont's Hawthorn thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot is one where it can receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If positioned in too much shade, the plant may not produce as many flowers and could become leggy.
TemperatureDumont's Hawthorn prefers temperate conditions and will thrive in temperatures ranging from 35 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive occasional dips below freezing but should not be exposed to prolonged periods of extreme cold or heat. The ideal growing temperatures for this plant are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningDumont's Hawthorn should be pruned to maintain its shape and to remove any dead or diseased branches. Prune immediately after flowering to avoid cutting off next season's buds, which typically form on old wood. Light thinning and shaping can be done in late winter or early spring, before the growing season starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe x Crataemespilus grandiflora, commonly known as the Duchesnea grandiflora, thrives most effectively in rich, well-draining loamy soil. A blend of two parts organic garden soil, one part perlite or coarse sand, and one part peat or humus is recommended for potting. Maintain the soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth conditions.
RepottingThe Duchesnea grandiflora should generally be repotted every two to three years to provide fresh nutrients and to accommodate root growth. Repotting is best performed in the spring season before the onset of the growth period.
Humidity & MistingDuchesnea grandiflora enjoys moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. Consistent humidity promotes healthier growth, while preventing the foliage from drying out.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; water when topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Ensure well-draining soil, partial shade, and protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycle× Crataemespilus grandiflora, also known as graft-chimaera, starts its life cycle as a seed that germinates in suitable soil and climate conditions. After germination, it develops a root system and a shoot that will grow into a small sapling. This stage is followed by the establishment of the plant, where it develops a sturdy trunk and branches. The graft-chimaera reaches maturity and begins to blossom, producing large, attractive flowers usually in the spring. Following pollination, if successful, it will produce fruit containing seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, especially if located in temperate zones, before resuming growth in the next season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: × Crataemespilus grandiflora, commonly known as the Dwarf Medlar, is typically propagated through grafting, which is the most popular method due to the reliability of the offspring resembling the parent plant. This technique involves taking a piece of a stem with leaf buds, known as a scion, from the desired parent plant and attaching it to a rootstock that is hardy and already established. The ideal time to graft the Dwarf Medlar is in late winter to early spring when the plant is still dormant but about to enter its growing phase. The scion should be around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, and it is joined to the rootstock through a method such as whip grafting, cleft grafting, or bud grafting, depending on the size of the scion and the rootstock. After the graft has been made, it is important to seal the join with grafting wax or a similar sealant to prevent desiccation and infection. Proper aftercare is crucial, including the maintenance of humidity around the graft until it has fully taken and the new growth appears, indicating successful propagation.
