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hemlock dwarf mistletoe

Scientific Name: Arceuthobium tsugense

Family: Viscaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Hemlock Dwarf Mistletoe

This page provides information about Hemlock Dwarf Mistletoe, a parasitic plant primarily affecting western hemlock trees.

Scientific Name and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Arceuthobium tsugense
  • Common Name: Hemlock Dwarf Mistletoe

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Viscaceae
  • Subspecies: Several subspecies are mentioned, including Arceuthobium tsugense subsp. tsugense and Arceuthobium tsugense subsp. mertensianae. Arceuthobium tsugense subsp. amabilae is also noted as a new subspecies from Oregon.
  • Synonyms: Arceuthobium tsugense (Rosendahl) G.N. Jones

Distribution and Habitat

  • Hemlock dwarf mistletoe is primarily found in coastal regions, specifically within the range of coastal western hemlock.
  • It is prevalent in the Pacific Northwest, infesting a significant percentage of western and mountain hemlock types.
  • While generally coastal, there are exceptions, such as a few areas in the Prince Rupert Forest Region.

Ecological Role

  • Hemlock dwarf mistletoe is a parasitic plant, meaning it derives nutrients from a host plant (typically western hemlock).
  • Infection can lead to reduced tree growth and vigor, and a decrease in wood quality.
  • The presence of dwarf mistletoe can be exacerbated by variable retention harvesting practices.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Dwarf mistletoes are flowering plants that grow on the stems and branches of host trees.
  • Infection can cause swellings on the stems and branches of hemlock trees. Small branch swelling can be the first sign of infection.
  • Heavy infestations can lead to the formation of large "witches' brooms," which are dense masses of branches.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The primary host is western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla).
  • It can also infect western white pine (Pinus species) under certain conditions.

Further Information

  • Research on this plant has been published in journals such as Forest Science and the BC Journal of Ecosystems and Management.
  • The USDA Forest Service - Region 2 - Rocky Mountain Region also provides information.
  • Plantwise and partners provide images of hemlock dwarf mistletoe.