False Mistletoe, Oak mistletoe
Phoradendron leucarpum

Family: Viscaceae

What it is like

Phoradendron leucarpum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf all year, in flower from February to April, and the seeds ripen from November to December. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). . The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

A parasite growing on deciduous trees, especially Acer rubrum and Nyssa spp.

N. America - New Jersey to Florida, west to Illinois and Texas.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

A tea made from the leaves is said to procure abortions and also to prevent conception. It causes an increase in uterine contractions and helps to stop bleeding after parturition. When injected into the blood it increases blood pressure.

Abortifacient: Causes an abortion.

Contraceptive: Prevents fertilization occurring in females.

Oxytoxic: Hastens parturition and stimulates uterine contractions. See also birthing aids.

Other

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How it is grown

A parasitic plant, growing on the branches of several deciduous species of trees. It has a wide range of hosts, though it is usually only found on one species in any given area. The host tree must be at least 20 years old. This species is seldom cultivated since it can severely weaken its host.

Propagating it: This is a parasitic plant that grows entirely on the host tree. To grow it you need to obtain berries and squash them onto the branches of host trees in late autumn and early winter. This is best done on the lower side of the branch. It is then simply a matter of waiting and hoping.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 5-9

Growth: Slow

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

There are recorded cases of the berries poisoning people. Contact with the plant can cause dermatitis in some people.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

P. flavescens. (Pursh.)Nutt.