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Description
Phoradendron Leucarpum Subsp. Tomentosum, also known as Eastern mistletoe, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the Santalaceae family. It is native to parts of North America, including the eastern United States, and is known for its white berries that are a popular food source for birds. This plant has been used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans for centuries.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: | Eukarya |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
Class: | Magnoliopsida |
Order: | Santalales |
Family: | Santalaceae |
Genus: | Phoradendron |
Appearance
Eastern mistletoe has small, green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow in pairs along its stems. Its stems can grow up to two feet long and are often covered in small, white or yellowish flowers. The plant’s white berries are around 1/4 inch in diameter and grow in clusters. Eastern mistletoe is a deciduous plant, meaning it loses its leaves in the winter.
Care Guide
Eastern mistletoe is a parasitic plant that requires a host tree to grow. It can be grown indoors in a pot, but it must be attached to a host tree or shrub for it to thrive. When caring for Eastern mistletoe, it is important to ensure that it receives enough water and sunlight. It is also important to fertilize the plant regularly and to use a well-draining soil.Eastern mistletoe is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eastern mistletoe is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing it with proper care.
Habitat
Eastern mistletoe can be found growing on a variety of trees and shrubs, including oak, hickory, and apple trees. It is commonly found in woodlands and can be found in parts of the eastern United States.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eastern mistletoe be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Eastern mistletoe can be grown indoors in a pot, but it must be attached to a host tree or shrub for it to thrive.
Q: What type of soil is best for Eastern mistletoe?
A: Eastern mistletoe prefers a well-draining soil.
Q: What are the white berries on Eastern mistletoe used for?
A: The white berries on Eastern mistletoe are a popular food source for birds.
Q: What pests and diseases are Eastern mistletoe susceptible to?
A: Eastern mistletoe is susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Phoradendron Bolleanum
- Phoradendron Juniperinum
- Phoradendron Flavescens
- Phoradendron Serotinum
References
- “Eastern Mistletoe.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 12, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PHLEL2.
- “Mistletoe.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 12, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b645.
- “Phoradendron Leucarpum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 12, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PHLE2.