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Washington Hawthorne #823894

Asked March 29, 2023, 6:15 PM EDT

Can you please give me any recommendations for Hawthorne and Cockspur species that has been developed to resist leaf rust suitable for zone 4 in sandy mix soil. Thank you

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thanks for the question.

As you probably know Hawthorn (Crataegus species) is widely used in various types of landscaping. Most varieties can survive in growing zones 3 so there should be no problems encountered with your zone 4. However before purchase check the zone specifications of the particular variety. They grow best in somewhat moist soils with a good organic content. It may experience some problems in your sandy type soil. In reviewing the literature it appears that the following varieties are largely rust resistant:

1). “Paul’s Scarlet” (Crataegus laevigata): This variety produces clusters of double pink-red flowers in late spring. See:

https://www.gardenia.net/plant/crataegus-laevigata-paul-scarlet

2). “Crimson Cloud” (Crataegus laevigata): This variety has white flowers that eventually turn pink. See:

https://horsfordnursery.com/crataegus-laevigata-crimson-cloud-treeform/

3). “Winter King” (Crataegus viridis): White flowers in the spring with red foliage in the fall. See:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/<personal data hidden>1630055/

It is important to note that while these varieties are resistant to rust, they still may be susceptible to other diseases and/or pests. Also see:

https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/cedar-apple-rust

https://trees.umn.edu/hawthorn-crataegus-spp

https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/pests-and-problems/diseases/rusts/cedar-hawthorn-rust - :~:text=Use fungicidal sprays.,chlorothalonil (Daconil) and mancozeb.

Cockspur Hawthorn (Crataeguscrus-galli) is a species possessing spiky thorns and white flowers. Two varieties purportedly rust resistant are “Crusader” and “Splendens”. Note that this second variety is devoid of thorns. See:

https://campustrees.umn.edu/cockspur-hawthorn

https://trees.umn.edu/crusader-cockspur-hawthorn-crataegus-crus-galli-crusader

https://www.cirrusimage.com/tree_hawthorncockspurshowy/

Good luck and please get back to us with any further questions.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 29, 2023, 10:20 PM EDT

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