The limitations of two leafy mistletoes of the genus Phoradendron by low temperatures

Abstract

Phoradendron, new world counterpart of the European Viscum or Christmas mistletoe, is mainly tropical or subtropical in occurrence. Only the group Boreales, found primarily in southern and western United States and in the highland plateau of northern Mexico, grows in temperate regions (Trelease 1916). In the Atlantic States, one species of this group extends as far north as New Jersey. In the milder Pacific States, several species are found in Oregon, one of them, Phoradendron villosum Nutt, up to approximately latitude 45° N. These limits are much more restricted than those of the host trees and shrubs, suggesting a differential response to some climatic factor, most probably temperature. The role of low temperatures in limiting the incidence and range of two species of Phoradendron occurring on conifers on the Pacific Coast is indicated by the following observations in California.

Citation

Wagener, Willis W. 1957. The limitations of two leafy mistletoes of the genus Phoradendron by low temperatures. Ecology. 38(10): 142-145.