Photo: Mahomed DesaiCC BY 4.0via iNaturalistresized / cropped
Kraussian mistletoe Plant Care
Agelanthus kraussianus (Meisn.) Polhill & Wiens
Updated · Sources · How we source care data
This unique parasitic plant has small, scale-like leaves that grow in dense clusters on its host tree branches. Originating from South Africa, Agelanthus kraussianus is highly sought after by plant collectors for its unusual growth habit and intricate relationship with its host plant. With its tiny leaves and specialized lifestyle, this plant adds a fascinating touch to any collection.
Every 7–14 days
Partial to full shade
60–80°F
50–70%
At a glance
How do you care for Kraussian mistletoe?
Water Kraussian mistletoe every 7–14 days, letting the top layer of soil dry out between waterings, and give it partial to full shade. It prefers temperatures of 60–80°F (16–27°C) and 50–70% humidity. Fertilize it every month during the growing season.
What Is the Kraussian mistletoe?
Kraussian mistletoe (Agelanthus kraussianus) belongs to the Loranthaceae family within the Agelanthus genus. Kraussian mistletoe is native to Southern Africa.
Kraussian mistletoe displays a parasitic, vine-like growth habit, reaching up to 1 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Kraussian mistletoe produces small, inconspicuous flowers.
How Often Should You Water a Kraussian mistletoe?
Agelanthus kraussianus requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Kraussian mistletoe Need?
Kraussian mistletoe thrives in partial to full shade. Avoid placing Kraussian mistletoe in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Partial to full shade
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Kraussian mistletoe Prefer?
Agelanthus kraussianus grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Kraussian mistletoe prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
50–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Kraussian mistletoe?
Well-draining soil mix with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Kraussian mistletoe to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Often Should You Fertilize a Kraussian mistletoe?
Feed Kraussian mistletoe every month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.
Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.
Fertilizing
Every month
During the growing season
The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.
How Do You Repot a Kraussian mistletoe?
Not applicable, grows on host plants. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Kraussian mistletoe?
Kraussian mistletoe can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.
Is the Kraussian mistletoe Toxic to Pets and Children?
Pet safety not verified
The ASPCA does not list Kraussian mistletoe, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Keep pets from chewing it as a precaution.
This is a general caution, not veterinary or medical advice. If your pet ate a plant, contact your vet or animal poison control.
See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Kraussian mistletoe?
Kraussian mistletoe is susceptible to aphids, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Kraussian mistletoe Need?
Kraussian mistletoe grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10a. Kraussian mistletoe is native to Southern Africa. In cooler regions, grow Kraussian mistletoe as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 10a – 11b
Keep exploring plants
Kraussian mistletoe is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Agelanthus genus — compare its care with other Agelanthus species on PlantoScan.
Agelanthus is part of the Loranthaceae plant family — browse all Loranthaceae genera and species.
Kraussian mistletoe copes with lower light than most plants — browse the full list of low-light plants.
Related Plant Care Guides
Closely related plants with similar care requirements:
Sources
- Scientific name & taxonomy: Agelanthus kraussianus (Meisn.) Polhill & Wiens, family Loranthaceae (first published in Mistletoes Africa : 169 (1998)) — World Flora Online record, IPNI name record.
- Pet toxicity: Pet safety not verified: the ASPCA does not list Kraussian mistletoe, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Checked against the ASPCA plant list; any other toxicity note on this page comes from PlantoScan's plant database.
- Photo: Mahomed Desai, CC BY 4.0, iNaturalist — original.
- Hardiness zone: USDA Zone 10a – 11b, estimated from the plant's typical growing conditions.
- Care values(watering, light, temperature, humidity, soil, fertilizing): PlantoScan's plant database, filtered by automatic plausibility checks — values that fail them are hidden. How we source and check plant data.
Spotted a mistake? Email info@upvision.media with the page link — we check and correct reported errors.
Identify Plants Like the
Kraussian mistletoe Instantly
Scan any plant with your phone camera and get instant ID, care tips, water and fertilizer reminders, and health checks — all in one app.
Free
to download
iOS & Android
platforms
Light & dark
mode
100,000+
species