Also known as Douglas' Dwarf Mistletoe · Douglas-Fir Dwarf Mistletoe
Douglas-Fir Dwarf-Mistletoe (Arceuthobium douglasii) is a parasitic plant that infects Douglas-fir and other true firs, causing significant damage to timber production.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Host Dependent
25% intensity
Grows on host tree, so light exposure is determined by host canopy. Generally tolerates shade.
Host Dependent
0% intensity
Relies on host tree for moisture. Focus on host tree health during drought.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Tolerant
50% intensity
Adapted to the temperature ranges of its native coniferous forest environments.
Not Applicable
0% intensity
A parasite, it obtains all nutrients from the host tree. No external fertilization needed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
As a hemi-parasitic plant, Arceuthobium douglasii primarily obtains water from its host tree. Supplemental watering is generally not required for the mistletoe itself.
Focus on maintaining the health of the host tree, as its well-being dictates the mistletoe's survival. Ensure the host receives adequate moisture during prolonged dry spells.
Pruning is primarily focused on managing the host tree's health and reducing mistletoe spread. Remove infected branches of the host tree to limit further infection.
For direct removal of Arceuthobium douglasii, cut the aerial shoots flush with the bark of the host tree. This prevents regrowth from the site of attachment.
Propagation of Arceuthobium douglasii is achieved through its explosive seed dispersal mechanism. Seeds are ejected from mature fruits and can travel several meters. Natural spread is the primary mode of propagation.
Artificial propagation is not practical or necessary for this parasitic plant.
Repotting is not applicable to Arceuthobium douglasii, as it is an obligate parasite that grows directly on its host tree. It lacks an independent root system and cannot survive outside of its host.
Its life cycle is entirely dependent on the vascular system of the Douglas fir tree.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Douglas-Fir Dwarf-Mistletoe (Arceuthobium douglasii)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Santalaceae |
| Genus | Arceuthobium |
| Species | Arceuthobium douglasii |
Similar in genus Arceuthobium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
