Should the Hawthorn Be Saved?
Ron Lance, a North Carolina nature preserve caretaker and hawthorn expert, notes the decline of hawthorn trees in the eastern U.S. due to habitat loss, invasive species, and fungal diseases. Botanists debate conservation strategies amid species confusion.
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Ron Lance, a caretaker of a nature preserve in North Carolina and an expert on hawthorn trees, has witnessed the decline of these trees in the eastern United States. Once abundant, hawthorns are now disappearing due to various factors such as habitat loss, invasive species, and fungal diseases. The rapid diversification of hawthorn species in the late 19th century has led to confusion among botanists, with debates on the true number of species and their classification. Some experts believe that the decline of hawthorns is a natural cycle, while others argue for conservation efforts to protect the remaining diversity. The disappearance of hawthorns poses a challenge for conservationists in determining which species to prioritize for protection. A group of botanists in North Carolina is working to establish a hawthorn consortium to support research and conservation initiatives for these trees. The fate of hawthorns reflects a broader debate on the value of biodiversity and the impact of human activities on natural ecosystems.
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6 commentsIt has gotten larger over time, and harder to mow around due to the thorns (spine-like protrusions which resemble small branch growths more than true thorns).
It does have one redeeming quality. Every year in early spring, for a brief but dazzling moment, it appears covered in thousands of small, white, lace-like flowers.
Would population-scale (of those that can still be found) genetic sequencing help point the way to an answer? It's relatively cheap now, compared to before, and odds are will be more so.
Was just reading last night: "the thorns are "particularly toxic to the eye". Corneal scratches led to loss of vision in more than half of 132 reported incidents in Ireland (Mitchell and Rook, 1979)." From this book: https://www.amazon.com/Handbook-Edible-Weeds-Reference-Libra...
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