Mistletoe in Bend

While in Bend, we saw some good examples of mistletoe growing on conifers. In all cases, the mistletoe was growing on Juniper trees that grow on wild, uncultivated land, sometimes even growing right next to cultivated land. Possibly trees that receive less water are more prone to drought and infestation.

Juniper scrub plant community in Bend, Oregon

As mentioned in a previous post (“Mistletoe”), mistletoe growing on conifers produces scales instead of leaves. Scales are a leaf adaptation.

Healthy Juniper scales

Seedlings that land on the branches are capable of photosynthesis, but the adult plants are dependent on their host for nutrients from photosynthesis and as moisture.



Mistletoe growing on a Juniper

The haustoria taps into both of the tree’s transport systems – the xylem that brings moisture and nutrients up from the roots, and the phloem that distributes nutrients from the photosynthesis process.


The mistletoe leaves resemble the scales of the juniper

The mistletoe causes distortions in the conifers, called witches’ brooms.