Phoradendron serotinum , commonly known as American Mistletoe , is part of thePhoradendrongenus within the Santalaceae mob , which includes parasitic plant . This specie is a hemiparasitic plant , meaning it photosynthesizes but also draw water and nutrient from the host tree . The genus name “ Phoradendron ” comes from Greek actor’s line meaning “ stealer of the tree , ” shine its epenthetic nature , while “ serotinum ” advert to its belatedly - ripening yield .
American Mistletoe is aboriginal to North America , with its range extending from New Jersey due south through Florida and westwards to Texas , Oklahoma , and into region of California . It usually parasitizes a wide variety of deciduous trees , peculiarly favor mintage like oak tree , maple , and pecans , in both natural woodlands and urban environments .
Historically , mistletoe has a rich tapis of ethnical implication . Among Native American tribes , Phoradendron serotinumwas used for medicative use , include treatments for toothache , epilepsy , and childbirth . In European custom , whileViscum albumis more normally known , the general construct of mistletoe as a symbolization of peace , love , and fertility was bring to America , act upon holiday custom . The recitation of kiss under the mistletoe probably stems from these traditions , althoughPhoradendron serotinumdoesn’t share the extensive folklore of its European first cousin . It has been used decoratively during Christmas , often harvest from the wild for this purpose .
American Mistletoe is adaptable to USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9 , reflecting its power to produce in a range of climate from the warm temperate to subtropical regions where its legion trees expand . As for lifespan , Mistletoe can go for many eld as a perennial , with its seniority bond to the wellness of its horde Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree . A unmarried mistletoe plant can remain for tenner if conditions are favorable , producing berries annually that are crucial for its spread through fowl dissemination .
Mistletoe (Phoradendron serotinum): Characteristics
Mistletoe (Phoradendron serotinum): Cultivation
Host Selection
pick out a suitable horde tree diagram , sooner hardwoods like oak , maple , or pecan , since Viscum album is epenthetic . The host should be healthy to maintain both itself and the Loranthus europaeus .
Propagation Method
Propagation is typically through seeds . Collect advanced Berry in late fall or winter , and use the awkward viscin to tie seed directly to arm of the host tree where you need mistletoe to grow .
Timing
industrial plant source in late winter to early give , as this mimics the lifelike diffusion and sprouting bicycle after birds have eaten the berry .
Site Preparation
No special soil preparation is want since Loranthus europaeus grow on tree subdivision rather than in the ground . Ensure the branch where seeds are placed is accessible for seed placement .
lacrimation
Mistletoe gets its water supply from the host tree , so there ’s no motive for additional tearing . However , keep the wellness of the legion tree through adequate watering is beneficial .
Light Requirements
Mistletoe call for good light exposure for photosynthesis . Select branch that receive plenteousness of sunlight for optimal growth .
Fertilization
fertilisation is n’t required for mistletoe as it acquires nutrients from the host Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree . However , keep the legion Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree well - nourish .
Pruning and Maintenance
If mistletoe becomes too dense and starts to harm the server , snip it back . employ gloves when deal due to the muggy nature of the berries . steady monitoring of mistletoe growth is advisable to negociate its bedcover .
Pest and Disease Management
Mistletoe itself has few pests or disease , but monitor the health of the emcee tree . Mistletoe can attract sure insects or birds that might touch the server .
Cultural Considerations
Be mindful of the ethnical significance of mistletoe in holiday decorations or as a symbol . If cultivating for ornamental use , consider how you ’ll harvest or carry off it without damage the legion tree .
