310 HOW TO KNOW WILD FRUITS ' 



AMERICAN MISTLETOE 

 Phoradendron flavescens Mistletoe Family 



Fruit. — The white berries are globose, pulpy, 

 and one-seeded. They grow in clusters on a 

 short foot stalk. 



Leaves. — The leaves are thick, leathery, yel- 

 lowish green, oval or obovate, entire, obtuse at 

 apex and narrowed into a short petiole at the 

 base. They are persistent throughout the season. 



Flowers, — The dioecious flowers grow in cat- 

 kinlike spikes. May- July. 



This parasite flourishes on deciduous trees, 

 notably the Red Maple and Tupelo. Its wood 

 is yellowish green, and the thick, firm leaves and 

 white berries persist during the winter. The 

 Mistletoe has a place in Christmas decorations, 

 and may often be seen at that time exposed for 

 sale. Phoradendron means tree-thief, referring 

 to its parasitic life. While essentially southern, 

 it occurs in southern New Jersey, Pennsylvania, 

 Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. 



