Crataegus coccinea is a species of hawthorn tree native to North America. The name is pronounced /krəˈtiːɡəs kɒˈsɪniə/ and follows standard English phonetic spelling. The first syllable, "cra," is pronounced with a short "a" sound. The "t" is pronounced as a soft "t" sound. The second part of the name, "coccinea," is pronounced with three syllables: "kok-SEE-nee-uh." The emphasis is on the second syllable. The final vowel sound is a schwa sound. This pronunciation guide should help those who are unfamiliar with botanical names correctly pronounce this species.
Crataegus coccinea, commonly known as scarlet hawthorn or red hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is native to eastern North America and is characterized by its vibrant red flowers and red fruit, which ripen in the autumn months.
The scarlet hawthorn typically grows up to 20 feet in height and has a rounded crown with thorny branches. The leaves are serrated, dark green in color, and have a glossy appearance. The flowers, which bloom in spring, are small and numerous, forming clusters known as corymbs. They are bright red and have five petals, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
The fruit of the scarlet hawthorn, called pomes, are similar in appearance to small apples and ripen from green to bright red in the fall. They are edible and often persist on the tree throughout winter, providing a food source for birds and small mammals.
In addition to its ornamental value, Crataegus coccinea has also been used for its medicinal properties. Various parts of the plant, including the berries and flowers, have long been utilized in traditional medicine to treat cardiovascular ailments, digestive disorders, and high blood pressure.
Overall, Crataegus coccinea is a visually striking plant with ecological and medicinal significance. Its red flowers and fruit, along with its ability to tolerate a variety of soil conditions, make it a popular choice for landscaping in North America.
The etymology of the word "Crataegus coccinea" can be broken down as follows:
1. Crataegus: This is the genus name of a group of plants commonly known as hawthorns. The word "Crataegus" is derived from the Greek word "krátaigos", which refers to a species of hawthorn. It is believed to have been composed of "kratos" (meaning "strength" or "hardness") and "aíx" or "aíg-" (referring to a species of thorn).
2. Coccinea: This is the specific epithet for the plant, which indicates the species name. The word "coccinea" comes from the Latin term "coccineus", meaning "scarlet" or "red". This epithet is given to the species due to the vibrant red color of its flowers.