Haustoria: Specialized structures produced by parasitic plants that penetrate the host plant’s tissues to extract nutrients and water.
In a home gardening setting, haustoria is not something you’ll typically encounter directly. They are relevant to understanding how certain parasitic plants, like dodder or mistletoe, survive. These plants don’t have a strong root system of their own and instead rely on other plants for sustenance. Their haustoria act like tiny straws, tapping into the host plant’s vascular system to steal resources.
For home gardeners, the most important thing to know about haustoria is that they are associated with parasitic plants that can harm your garden plants. If you notice unusual growth or signs of decline in your plants and suspect a parasitic plant infestation, it’s best to consult with a local gardening expert or extension service for advice on how to manage the problem.
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