Contents
Description
Loranthus Europaeus, commonly known as European Mistletoe, is a parasitic plant that grows on a variety of trees, including apple, oak, and poplar. It is native to Europe and Western Asia, but has been introduced to other parts of the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Santalaceae |
| Genus | Loranthus |
Appearance
The European Mistletoe has thick, leathery leaves that are oval-shaped and arranged in pairs. Its flowers are small and yellowish-green, and its fruit is a white berry with a sticky pulp. The plant can grow up to 1 meter in length and its branches can be up to 10 centimeters in diameter.
Care Guide
The European Mistletoe is a parasitic plant and does not require soil to grow. However, it does require a host tree to survive. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, but should be kept away from direct sunlight. It requires regular watering and fertilization during the growing season. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The European Mistletoe is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Regular inspections and treatments can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
The European Mistletoe is commonly found in deciduous forests, orchards, and parks. It can grow on a variety of trees, including apple, oak, and poplar.
Question and Answer
1. How does the European Mistletoe obtain its nutrients?
Answer: The European Mistletoe is a parasitic plant and obtains its nutrients from its host tree.
2. Is the European Mistletoe toxic?
Answer: The European Mistletoe can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
3. Can the European Mistletoe be grown without a host tree?
Answer: No, the European Mistletoe requires a host tree to survive.
4. Can the European Mistletoe be grown indoors?
Answer: Yes, the European Mistletoe can be grown indoors as long as it is kept away from direct sunlight.
Related Plants
- Loranthus Campanulatus
- Loranthus Ferrugineus
- Loranthus Hostilis
References
- “Loranthus Europaeus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 8 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287246&isprofile=0&genus=Loranthus&species=europaeus&cultivar=.
- “Loranthus Europaeus.” Plants for a Future. Accessed 8 June 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Loranthus+europaeus.
