Landscape Warnings: Mistletoe and Desert Broom

Mistletoe (Phoradendron spp) is a parasitic evergreen shrub that sends its rootlike structures into tree branches, where they absorb water, minerals & nutrients.  In severe infestations, mistletoe can kill a tree by robbing it of nutrients.  It earns its genus name, Phoradendron, which means “thief of the tree”.  Mistletoe can be spread from tree to tree by birds, which feed on the seeds & deposit then in nearby trees.  If residents have mistletoe in trees please remove immediately. See Google Image Search for visual references.

Desert Broom known as a noxious or nuisance weed.  It is said that if you have a lot of Desert Broom you have a lot less desert vegetation.  This invasive weed can also crowd out other plants, steel valuable water & clog roadsides/washes & retention areas.  If residents have desert broom on their property please remove immediately. See Google Image Search for visual references.