Northern Mistletoe
Lysiana subfalcata

Family: Loranthaceae

What it is like

A plant which grows on the branches of other plants. The stem is attached to the host by an enlarged base. The branches are spreading or hang downwards. The leaves are 2-11 cm long by 0.4-2 cm wide. They can be opposite or in clusters. They taper to the stalk. They are pale green. The flowers occur as 2 together on a short stalk. The flowers are 2.5-5 cm long and usually red. They can have yellow or green tips. The fruit is 0.8-1.4 cm long. They are pear shaped and often yellow.

There are 8 Lysiana species. They grow in Australia.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in tropical places in Australia. It occurs in woodland and open forest. It grows on Acacia, Vauhinia, Atalaya, Lysiophyllum and Santalum species plants. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The fruit are very sweet and are especially sought after by children.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Ngantja

Synonyms

Loranthus exocarpi Behr.; Lysiana subfalcata (Hook.) Barlow; Possibly now Loranthus subfalcatus Hook.; Now Lysiana maritima