Viscum Coloratum
Contents
Description
Viscum Coloratum, commonly known as Korean mistletoe, is a perennial plant native to East Asia. It belongs to the family Santalaceae and is a hemiparasitic plant that grows on the branches of trees. The plant has small flowers that bloom from June to August and produces berries that mature in winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Santalaceae |
| Genus | Viscum |
Appearance
Viscum Coloratum has dark green leaves that are leathery and oval-shaped. The plant grows up to 1 meter in height and spreads up to 1.5 meters wide. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and grow in clusters. The fruit is a white or pinkish berry that is about 6 mm in diameter. The plant’s stems are thick and woody, with a pale grey color, and the branches are irregularly forked.
Care Guide
Water
Viscum Coloratum requires moderate watering. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every 6 months with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
Viscum Coloratum grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight
The plant requires partial shade to full sun. It is best to grow the plant in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones
Viscum Coloratum is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viscum Coloratum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests are aphids and spider mites. The plant is also susceptible to powdery mildew and fungal leaf spot. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good airflow around the plant and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Viscum Coloratum is native to East Asia and can be found in China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in forests, on the branches of trees, and can also be found in urban areas.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Viscum Coloratum poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
Q: How often should I prune Viscum Coloratum?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Can Viscum Coloratum be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Viscum Coloratum indoors, it is not recommended. The plant requires partial shade to full sun and may not receive enough light indoors.
Q: How long does it take for Viscum Coloratum to produce berries?
A: The plant produces berries in winter, approximately 2 years after planting.
Related Plants
- Viscum Album (European Mistletoe)
- Arceuthobium Americanum (American Dwarf Mistletoe)
- Arceuthobium Campylopodum (California Dwarf Mistletoe)
- Arceuthobium Tsugense (Alpine Fir Dwarf Mistletoe)
References
- “Viscum Coloratum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a825.
- “Viscum Coloratum.” Plant Information Online, www.plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1448989.
- “Growing Viscum Coloratum.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/viscum-coloratum.
