Witches' broom

Pronunciation
/WITCH-es broom/
Category
Disease
Singular
Witches' broom
Plural
Witches' brooms

Definition

A growth of tangled plant shoots, often appearing as a deformed and bushy mass, caused by various fungal, viral, phytoplasma diseases, or environmental factors.

Etymology

Example

The witches' broom condition affects many types of plants, resulting in abnormal growths.

Related Terms

  • Fungal diseases
  • Viral diseases
  • Phytoplasma diseases
  • Plant pathology

Usage Notes

Witches' broom can also be caused by environmental factors such as herbicide damage or dwarf mistletoe infestations.