Phoradendron Serotinum (Raf.) M.C. Johnston var. Pubescens (Engelm. ex Gray) M.C. Johnston
Phoradendron serotinum (Raf.) M.C. Johnston var. pubescens (Engelm. ex Gray) M.C. Johnston is commonly known as mistletoe, American mistletoe, oak mistletoe, or mesquite mistletoe. It is a parasitic plant that is native to the southern United States and Mexico, growing on a range of host trees, including oak, mesquite, and juniper. It is an evergreen plant that is a member of the Santalaceae family.
Appearance
The plant grows in clumps that can range from a few inches to several feet in diameter and can reach up to three feet in length. It has waxy, green leaves that are oval in shape and grow in pairs opposite one another on the stem. The plant produces small, yellowish-green flowers in the spring, followed by clusters of white or pinkish-white berries in the late fall and winter.
Uses
Mistletoe has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and the plant is believed to have antitumor, antimicrobial, and antihypertensive properties. It has also been used to treat arthritis, epilepsy, and infertility. However, mistletoe contains toxic compounds, and its use should be supervised by a trained healthcare professional.
In addition to its medicinal properties, mistletoe has cultural and symbolic significance. It is a common decoration during the winter holidays, and kissing under the mistletoe is a traditional Christmas custom. The plant has also been used in ceremonies by Native American tribes.
Light Conditions
Phoradendron serotinum var. pubescens generally prefers to grow in partial shade. It can also tolerate full sun, but excessive exposure to sunlight can cause leaf burn and stunted growth. Therefore, it is best to grow the plant in an area where it receives filtered or dappled sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures and is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7-10. The minimum temperature for growth is around 10°C (50°F), while the maximum temperature should not exceed 35°C (95°F). In cooler conditions, the plant may become dormant and eventually die. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain a warm environment for optimum growth.
Soil Requirements
Phoradendron serotinum var. pubescens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. However, the soil pH should be slightly acidic, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. If the soil is alkaline, the plant may develop nutrient deficiencies.
The plant also grows well in soils that are moist but not waterlogged. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure proper drainage, especially during the rainy season. It is recommended to use a potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and sand to improve drainage and aeration.
Cultivation
Phoradendron serotinum (Raf.) M.C. Johnston var. pubescens (Engelm. ex Gray) M.C. Johnston, also known as hairy leaf mistletoe, thrives in warm, dry regions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and grows best in well-draining soil with a neutral to alkaline pH. This plant is a partial parasite, so it grows on other trees, shrubs, or plants for support and nutrients.
Watering Needs
Hairy leaf mistletoe requires very little water. These plants are naturally drought-tolerant and do not need frequent watering. Watering should only be done when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch, and the water should be applied directly on the soil, avoiding spraying the mistletoe directly with water.
Fertilization
Phoradendron serotinum (Raf.) M.C. Johnston var. pubescens (Engelm. ex Gray) M.C. Johnston does not typically require fertilization as it derives most of its nutrients from its host plant. However, if grown in a container or a pot, or soil conditions are inadequate, an all-purpose fertilizer may be applied during the growth period of the plant, preferably during late spring or early summer.
Pruning
Pruning Hairy leaf mistletoe is essential to prevent excessive growth and to control the plant's shape and size. The pruning process involves the removal of dead, diseased, or damaged branches using sharp, clean pruning shears. It is recommended to periodically remove up to 30% of the plant's foliage to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's structure. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, usually in late fall or early winter, as this is when the plant is least active.
Propagation of Phoradendron serotinum var. pubescens
Phoradendron serotinum var. pubescens, commonly known as mistletoe, can be propagated by using stem cuttings or by using seeds. The best time for propagation is during the spring season.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
To propagate mistletoe using stem cuttings, select a healthy stem that has at least three pairs of leaves. Cut the stem at an angle of 45 degrees using a sharp and sterile knife. Remove the leaves from the bottom pair of nodes. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot containing a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil thoroughly and cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place the pot in a warm and bright location and water it as needed. The cutting will start rooting in two to three weeks.
Propagation by Seeds
Mistletoe seeds are enclosed in sticky berries that birds often eat and then disperse the seeds through their feces. To propagate mistletoe using seeds, collect ripe berries from a healthy plant and extract the sticky seeds. The seeds will need to be scarified to break their hard coating so they can germinate. One way to scarify the seeds is by using sandpaper to scratch the surface of the seeds. Another way is to boil the seeds for a few seconds and then soak them in room temperature water for 24 hours. Once the seeds have been scarified, sow them on the surface of a well-draining potting mix. Water the soil and cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place the pot in a warm and bright location. The seeds will start germinating within two to four weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Phoradendron serotinum (Raf.) M.C. Johnston var. pubescens (Engelm. ex Gray) M.C. Johnston
Phoradendron serotinum (Raf.) M.C. Johnston var. pubescens (Engelm. ex Gray) M.C. Johnston, commonly known as Eastern mistletoe, is a common parasitic plant found in North America. As with any plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Mistletoe decline: This disease can be caused by several fungi such as Phoradendron leucarpum, Phoradendron flavescens, and Phoradendron villosum. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, stunting of shoots, and plant death. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove diseased plants and prune infected branches.
Canker diseases: Canker diseases like Phoradendron pyriforme, Phoradendron tomentosum, and Phoradendron leucarpum can cause sunken lesions on branches and stems leading to plant death. To manage canker diseases, it is recommended to prune infected branches and stem to prevent the spread of the disease.
Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi-like Phytophthora and Pythium causing browning of the roots and reduction in vigor. To manage root rot, it is recommended to use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Pests
Mistletoe bugs: These insects feed on the plant tissues, causing stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and death. To manage mistletoe bugs, it is recommended to use insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Mistletoe bud worms: These insect pests feed on the buds, leading to deformed growth and reduced flowering. To manage mistletoe bud worms, it is recommended to use insecticides, prune infested branches, and clear debris around the plant to reduce the insect habitat.
Mistletoe leafhoppers: These insects suck the plant sap causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage mistletoe leafhoppers, it is recommended to use insecticides, prune infested branches and avoid excessive use of fertilizers that promote leafhopper growth.
By following these management practices, it is possible to control pests and diseases in Phoradendron serotinum var. pubescens, promoting its growth and overall health.
