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gray pine dwarf mistletoe
Scientific Name: Arceuthobium occidentale
Family: Viscaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Gray Pine Dwarf Mistletoe
The Gray Pine Dwarf Mistletoe is a fascinating parasitic plant with a significant impact on its host tree.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- As a mistletoe, it is important to be aware of potential toxicity if ingested. (General Mistletoe Warning)
Scientific Classification
- Scientific Name: Arceuthobium occidentale
- Common Name: Gray Pine Dwarf Mistletoe
- Synonym: Arceuthobium americanum Nutt. Ex Engelm. In Gray
- Family: Mentioned in the text as Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Santalales.
- Nomencl. ref.: Rep. U.S. Geogr. Surv., Wheeler 254. 1879 dt. 1878 issued Jun-Aug 1879
Distribution and Habitat
- Endemic to California.
- Primarily found parasitizing Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana).
Ecological Role
- Parasitic plant that primarily infects gray pine (Pinus sabiniana).
- Severe infections can lead to rapid decline in gray pines, especially during stressful periods.
- Fires may help control dwarf mistletoe populations by thinning infected trees.
Morphological Characteristics
- Shoots are gray to light green.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Serves as a habitat or food source for certain migratory birds. Gray jays, chipping sparrows, hermit thrushes, Cassin’s finches, and pine siskins may nest in the "witches' brooms" caused by the mistletoe.
Further Information
- Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Arceuthobium occidentale.
- The National Library of Australia has resources about this mistletoe.