310 HOW TO KNOW WILD FEUITS 



AMERICAN MISTLETOE 

 Phoradendron flavescens Mistletoe Family 



Fruit. — The white berries are globose, pulpy, 

 and one-seeded. Tliey 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 w^ood 

 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. 



