Witch Broom (Noun)
Meaning
An abnormal tufted growth of small branches on a tree or shrub caused by fungi or insects or other physiological disturbance.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- A severe infestation of aphids on the oak tree led to the formation of a witch's broom, which weakened its structure over time.
- The arborist examined the infected pine and identified the cause of the witch broom as a fungal disease that required immediate treatment.
- A cluster of twigs and leaves resembling a miniature tree was a clear indication of a witch broom on the apple tree, caused by a bacterial infection.
- Wildlife conservationists observed the witch broom on the mistletoe-infested trees and noted how it provided a beneficial nesting site for certain bird species.
- Forestry researchers found that a witch broom on a black walnut tree often indicated the presence of an Eastern Black Walnut Curculio infestation.