Species Western Dwarf Mistletoe
orange-brown flowers, a brown cone and green-brown foliage on light-brown branches and trunk

Western Dwarf Mistletoe

Arceuthobium campylopodum

Western Dwarf Mistletoe is a perennial green species of plant that commonly grows on coniferous trees throughout western North America. It puts out characteristic yellow flowers and bright red berries. Dwarf Mistletoe prefers to grow in areas with dry climates, since the conifer trees it feeds on occur in abundance in these regions. The plant spreads via its airborne seeds that only spread within a few meters of the host tree. It is an important dietary component for many species of wildlife, and it provides protection and shelter from the sun for mammals.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

The Western Dwarf Mistletoe (Arceuthobium campylopodum) should be watered 2 to 3 times per week, depending on how far it is from an irrigation source, soil type, and temperature. During dry weather or when temperatures are extremely high, an extra watering may be necessary. The plant should not be over-watered, however, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

sunlight

Western Dwarf Mistletoe prefers full sun and can handle partial sun. In the northern states where the plant is native, it usually gets around 6-7 hours of sunlight every day during the summer months. In the south, it may get as much as 8-10 hours of sunlight each day. It should be sheltered from strong winds and direct afternoon sun in hot climates. The Western Dwarf Mistletoe also needs adequate moisture to thrive, particularly during the summer months.

pruning

Western Dwarf Mistletoe should be pruned once a year in late summer to early fall. Pruning should be done to remove any infected or dead branches as well as to promote dense, healthy growth. Care should be taken to remove as few healthy branches as possible. Pruning should avoid damaging living tissue and should be done carefully without cutting off too much at once. It is also beneficial to prune back some sections of the western dwarf mistletoe to promote a fuller growth.