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larch dwarf mistletoe

Scientific Name: Arceuthobium laricis

Family: Viscaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Larch Dwarf Mistletoe (Arceuthobium laricis)

Larch dwarf mistletoe is a parasitic plant affecting various conifer species, most notably western larch. Understanding its biology and impact is crucial for forest management in affected regions.

Considerations for Pets

  • Dwarf mistletoe infections cause spindle-shaped swellings on branches and small stems. These could potentially be a hazard if chewed on by pets.
  • The plant produces seeds that are dispersed; these small parts could be ingested by curious pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Dwarf mistletoe infections cause spindle-shaped swellings on branches and small stems. These could potentially be a hazard if handled by children.
  • The plant produces seeds that are dispersed; these small parts could be ingested by curious children.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Arceuthobium laricis (Piper) St. John
  • Common Name: Larch dwarf mistletoe
  • French Name: Faux-gui du mélèze
  • Division: Magnoliophyta

Distribution and Habitat

  • Primarily found in western North America.
  • Specific locations mentioned include:
    • Eastern Washington
    • Blue Mountains
    • Southeastern British Columbia (Osoyoos)
    • Intermountain West
    • Western Montana
    • Central Oregon

Ecological Role

  • Considered the most important disease of western larch.
  • It's a parasitic plant that significantly impacts the health and growth of its host trees.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Arceuthobium laricis is an endophytic parasite with a 'root' system that ramifies within the host branch.
  • Infections cause spindle-shaped swellings on branches and small stems.
  • Infection by dwarf mistletoe can cause large witches' brooms on affected trees.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Primarily affects western larch (Larix occidentalis).
  • Moderately susceptible species include lodgepole pine, western white pine, and grand fir.
  • Also sometimes infects subalpine fir and mountain hemlock.

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • TERMIUM (Government of Canada's terminology and linguistic data bank)
  • USDA Forest Service - Region 10 - Alaska