DESERT MISTLETOE
These hemiparasitic plants can be seen growing on many of the desert trees. Birds eat the seeds and later deposit the sticky seeds on the branches of other healthy trees. Roots of the desert mistletoe then enter into the bark of the host tree slowly killing the tree if left untended. There is no cure once a branch is infected, however if you keep it pruned back the trees have a much better chance of surviving.
DESERT BROOM
Desert broom is an invasive plant because of its aggressiveness in overtaking disturbed areas (such as roadsides and new landscaped areas), and because it burns fiercely and is a significant threat to nearby structures according to the Scottsdale Fire Department. The seeds can be found clogging pool filters which can cause costly damage. We encourage Desert Ranch homeowners to clear the areas on or near their properties of this nuisance.
