Phoradendron serotinum /Mistletoe

Phoradendron serotinum  / Phoradendron serotinum
Clusters of mistletoe growing on branches of water oak tree, a common host
View Image (Full)

Clusters of mistletoe growing on branches of water oak tree, a common host

Parasitic mistletoe

2007-2020 © OnlinePlantGuide.com All Rights Reserved. Information and images may not be reused without written consent.
Scientific Name: Phoradendron serotinum
Common Name: Mistletoe
Plant Type: Evergreen
Leaf Type: Broadleaf
Height: 1-2 feet
Spread: 1-2 feet
Bloom time: Spring, Summer
Flower color: Yellow
Fruit present: Fall, Winter
Fruit color: White
Light Exposure: Sun, Part Sun
Drainage: Well drained, Moist, Dry
Rate of Growth: Moderate
Water Requirement: Medium
Maintenance Level: Medium
Susceptible to insects
and diseases:
No
Comments: This parasite is always found growing on a plant whose branches or twigs it does not resemble. This mistletoe has thickly crowded, forking branches. It bears small leathery leaves and yellowish flowers and produce waxy-white berries containing poisonous pulp. A modified root penetrates the bark of the host tree and forms tubes through which water and nutrients pass from the host to the slow-growing but persistent parasite. Infestations of mistletoe can be large enough to cause reduced growth or even death of the host plant. Birds eat the sticky berries.