Origin
Taxillus ovalis (E.Mey. ex Harv.) Danser, commonly known as Oval-leaved Mistletoe, is a flowering plant species found in Southern and Eastern Africa.
Common Names
Taxillus ovalis has a range of common names across its distribution region. These include the Oval-leaved Mistletoe, Viscum ovalis, and Umdoni (in Zulu).
Uses
In traditional African medicine, the extracts from Taxillus ovalis are used to treat various ailments such as infertility, headaches, and fever. The plant also has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-ulcer properties. In addition, the mistletoe serves as a source of food for animals and birds.
General Appearance
The Taxillus ovalis plant is a yellowish-green, semi-parasitic shrub that grows up to one meter in length with oval-shaped leaves and small, greenish-yellow flowers. The plant attaches itself to the bark of host trees and draws nutrients and water from them. The plant's fruit is an oval-shaped, fleshy drupe with a single seed.
Light requirements
Taxillus ovalis is a semi-parasitic plant that requires partial shade to full sun exposure for optimum growth. It can tolerate a range of light conditions from dappled shade to direct sunlight, but consistent and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the plant to dry out.
Temperature requirements
Temperature plays a crucial role in the growth and development of Taxillus ovalis. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but thrives in warm tropical to subtropical climates. Ideal temperature range for growth and development of Taxillus ovalis is 20-30°C. Temperatures above or below this range can negatively affect plant growth and development.
Soil requirements
Taxillus ovalis requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a wide range of soils from sandy to loamy to rocky soils. However, the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant can tolerate dry and nutrient-poor soils. As a semi-parasitic plant, Taxillus ovalis draws nutrients from its host plant, and therefore requires a root graft with its host plant for full growth and development.
Cultivation
Taxillus ovalis is a parasitic plant that grows on the bark of its host tree. It is therefore important to choose the right host plant, which is usually a deciduous tree that is native to the same area as the plant. The plant thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral to acidic pH, and it requires partial to full sun exposure.
Watering needs
The plant should be regularly watered to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on the prevailing weather conditions and the soil type. In hot and dry conditions, more frequent watering is required, while in cooler temperatures, less frequent watering is needed.
Fertilization
The plant does not require regular fertilization as it obtains its nutrients from the host tree. However, in poor soils, the addition of slow-release organic fertilizers can help boost growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Taxillus ovalis plant as it does not have any significant above-ground parts. However, the removal of infected or diseased host tree branches can help prevent the spread of disease to the plant.
Propagation of Taxillus Ovalis
Taxillus Ovalis can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and suckers. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the grower's preference, expertise, and availability of resources.
Propagating Through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is possible, but it's a long and uncertain process due to the plant's parasitic nature. The seeds need to come in contact with a suitable host plant to start germinating and growing. The germination rate is low, and the seeds can take up to several months to sprout. Once they do, the seedlings will attach themselves to the host plant's bark and feed on its nutrients.
Propagating Through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is a more reliable and faster method than seed propagation. It involves taking a healthy, young stem cutting from the plant and planting it in well-draining soil. Before planting, remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem to create a callus, which will help the cutting establish itself in the soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight. With proper care, the cutting will root and develop into a new plant in a few months.
Propagating Through Suckers
Taxillus Ovalis produces offset shoots or suckers which grow from the roots or base of the plant. These suckers can be removed using a sharp knife or shears and planted in a pot with well-draining soil. Plant the sucker at the same depth as it was in the mother plant and water it regularly. Keep the pot in a shaded area and protect it from extreme temperatures until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Taxillus ovalis (E.Mey. ex Harv.) Danser
Taxillus ovalis (E.Mey. ex Harv.) Danser, commonly known as the oval mistletoe, is a hemiparasitic plant that grows on a variety of hosts such as acacia, eucalyptus, and citrus. It is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but its health can still be compromised by certain factors.
Common diseases
The most common disease affecting Taxillus ovalis is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves and stems. It can cause leaf curl, stunted growth, and reduced yield. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove and discard infected plant parts, improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the plant, and apply fungicides if necessary.
Another disease that can affect Taxillus ovalis is rust. This fungal disease appears as orange or brown rust spots on the leaves. It can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage rust, it is recommended to remove infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides if necessary.
Common pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Taxillus ovalis is the mistletoe bird. This bird can spread mistletoe seeds from infected plants to healthy ones. To manage mistletoe birds, it is recommended to prune infected branches and dispose of them properly, and discourage bird activity around the plant by using scare tactics or netting.
Mealybugs and scale insects can also infest Taxillus ovalis. These pests suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs and scale insects, it is recommended to remove and discard heavily infested plant parts, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, and use insecticides if necessary.
Overall, regular monitoring and proper cultural practices such as maintaining healthy host plants and avoiding excessive irrigation can help prevent and manage common diseases and pests that can affect Taxillus ovalis.
