| Botanical Name |
Phoradendron juniperinum |
| Common Name |
Juniper mistletoe |
| Family |
Viscaceae - Mistletoe |
| Description |
This native perennial is a parasite. It grows in round, olive green clusters throughout several species of Juniper trees. It depends on the Juniper for water and minerals. The damage done by this parasite is not usually significant. The tiny, scale-like leaves are in opposite pairs on the smooth, branched stems. In older Juniper trees the mistletoe sometimes takes on a golden hue. |
| Mature Size |
Stems are up to 8” long. Clusters are 6” – 15” across. |
| Bloom |
There are male and female plants. The female produces greenish, inconspicuous flowers and then small white or pinkish berries. The berry has a thin, outer layer covering a sticky, gelatinous interior. This coats the small seed, which is slightly hairy and shaped like a turnip. |
| Interesting Facts |
The state floral emblem of Oklahoma is a species of Mistletoe. There is debate about how toxic the berries are to humans. They are poisonous to cats and other small animals. |
| Traditional and Medicinal Uses |
Mistletoe is a popular Christmas decoration. Some species of birds eat the berries. A boiled mixture of Mistletoe, Juniper and Piñon leaves has been made into a lotion and used to treat ant and other insect bites. |
