THE MISTLETOE FAMILY. 



337 



parasites, growing on all kinds of trees, forming great masses, 

 and "ultimately destroying the parent tree. They possess no 

 principle of special interest, but are highly ornamental plants, 

 having fine coloured tubular flowers like " Honeysuckle," 

 especially the genus Loranthus, which contains 300 species. 

 The only exception to their parasitical character are Nuytsia 

 jlorihunda, a native of South-West Australia, and N. ligus- 

 trum of New South Wales, bushy trees attaining the height 

 of 20 to 30 feet. When in flower they are so brilliant that 

 they have received the name of " Flame trees." Loranthus 

 europceus is found in Germany, but this as well as the tro- 

 pical species, on account of their parasitical habit, are not 

 cultivated. A considerable number of species belonging to 

 the genus Viscum, on account of their minute flowers and 

 other characters, have by some botanists been formed into a 

 distinct family under the name of ViscacecE. 



Mistletoe ( Viscum album) is common in the southern parts 

 of Europe, and in England is most abundant in the south and 

 west, the trees in the apple orchards of Herefordshire and 

 adjoining counties being loaded with it. It is less seen in the 

 north, and does not extend to Scotland. It was said never to 

 grow on the oak, but this is a mistake, as of late years there 

 are many recorded instances. 



Much has been written respecting the Mistletoe, both 

 as regards its parasitical mode of growth and structure, as 

 also in relation to its ancient fame. History tells us it was 

 held sacred in the religious ceremonies of the Druids. The 

 very general custom of placing twigs and branches of Mistle- 

 toe in our houses at Christmas is probably a relic of its pagan 

 sanctity, though now retained merely as an emblem of social 

 friendship and jovial custom that has long characterized that 

 festive season. To supply this simple emblem, many waggon- 

 loads of Mistletoe are required for London alone, and it ap- 

 pears that the home produce is not equal to the demand, it 

 being extensively imported from Normandy. Its berries are 

 said to be poisonous, instances of death to children having 

 occurred from eating them ; but this appears to be owing 



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