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Description
Phoradendron Coryae, commonly known as Oak mistletoe, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the family Santalaceae. It is native to North America, including the United States and Mexico. The plant has small, green, and oval-shaped leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are yellowish-green and bloom in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a small, white berry that is about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Santalaceae |
| Genus | Phoradendron |
Appearance
The Oak mistletoe has small, green, oval-shaped leaves that are about 1 inch long and 1/2 inch wide. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers of the plant are yellowish-green and bloom in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a small, white berry that is about 1/4 inch in diameter. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in length and is often found growing on the branches of oak trees.
Care Guide
Phoradendron Coryae requires minimal care and maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant does not require regular watering as it obtains water and nutrients from the host tree.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization as it obtains nutrients from the host tree.
- Soil: The plant does not require soil as it grows on the branches of the host tree.
- Sunlight: The plant requires partial to full sunlight exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 6 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phoradendron Coryae is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, the plant may be infested by spider mites or scale insects. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be affected by powdery mildew or leaf spot disease. These diseases can be controlled by removing the affected leaves and applying a fungicide.
Habitat
Phoradendron Coryae is native to North America and is commonly found growing on the branches of oak trees. The plant can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and savannas. It is often found in areas with warm and humid climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phoradendron Coryae poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested.
Q: Can Phoradendron Coryae be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant requires a host tree to grow and cannot be grown indoors.
Q: Can Phoradendron Coryae be planted in a garden?
A: No, the plant requires a host tree to grow and cannot be planted in a garden.
Q: Does Phoradendron Coryae harm the host tree?
A: Yes, the plant is parasitic and can weaken the host tree over time.
Related Plants
- Phoradendron leucarpum
- Phoradendron serotinum
- Phoradendron flavescens
References
- “Phoradendron Coryae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b711>.
- “Phoradendron Coryae.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 25 May 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:116406-2>.
- “Oak Mistletoe.” Texas A&M Forest Service. Accessed 25 May 2021. <https://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/uploadedFiles/TFSMain/Manage_Forest_and_Land/TFS_Mgmt_Plan_Resources/Species_Oak_Mistletoe.pdf>.
