Contents
Description
Dendrophthoe Vitellina, commonly known as Indian Mistletoe, is a hemiparasitic plant that belongs to the Loranthaceae family. It is a perennial plant that grows on the branches of trees, deriving nutrients from its host. This plant is native to India and Southeast Asia, and it is widely used in traditional medicine for its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Loranthaceae |
| Genus | Dendrophthoe |
Appearance
Dendrophthoe Vitellina has a yellow-green stem that grows up to 30 cm long, with alternate, oval-shaped, leathery leaves that measure 5-10 cm in length. Its flowers are small, tubular, and yellow-green in color. The fruit is a berry that is initially green but turns yellow when ripe. This plant can grow up to 1 meter in length and is often found in dense clusters on the branches of trees.
Care Guide
Water
Dendrophthoe Vitellina requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water this plant early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Dendrophthoe Vitellina, as it derives most of its nutrients from its host tree. However, a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote growth.
Soil
This plant grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of sand, loam, and peat moss is ideal for Dendrophthoe Vitellina.
Sunlight
Dendrophthoe Vitellina prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate shade but may not flower as profusely as it would in full sun.
Hardiness Zones
This plant can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dendrophthoe Vitellina is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to infestations by scale insects and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Root rot may occur if the soil is not well-draining, and this can be prevented by ensuring adequate drainage.
Habitat
Dendrophthoe Vitellina is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, growing on the branches of trees such as mango, teak, and banyan. It is often used in traditional medicine in India and Southeast Asia for its medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dendrophthoe Vitellina a parasitic plant?
A: Yes, it is a hemiparasitic plant that derives nutrients from its host tree.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Dendrophthoe Vitellina?
A: This plant has antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties and is used in traditional medicine in India and Southeast Asia.
Q: Can Dendrophthoe Vitellina grow indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow this plant indoors, as it requires a host tree for its survival.
Q: How often should I water Dendrophthoe Vitellina?
A: This plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Dendrophthoe Falcata
- Dendrophthoe Pentandra
- Dendrophthoe Semiparasitica
References
- Bardhan, S., & Bhattacharya, A. (2015). Dendrophthoe falcata (L.f.) Ettingsh. (Loranthaceae): A review of its ethnomedicinal uses, biological activities, and phytochemistry. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 172, 42-60.
- Chen, Y. L., & Huang, T. C. (2006). Chemical constituents of Dendrophthoe vitellina. Journal of the Chinese Chemical Society, 53(2), 461-464.
- Sharma, R. K., & Sharma, R. (2010). Ethnomedicinal plants used to cure jaundice by the tribals of Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 9(4), 718-721.
