Phoradendron leucarpum aka American Mistletoe

Phoradendron leucarpum is known as American mistletoe. It is a woody shrub that stays green all year. People also call it false mistletoe or oak mistletoe. Its native range covers the central and eastern United States. The range extends into Mexico. It belongs to Santalaceae, the sandalwood family. Older sources put it in the family Viscaceae. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. This species grows on tree limbs, not in soil.

The plant draws resources from its host tree. The term for this is hemiparasite. It has green branches and leaves that stay green year-round. The leaves grow in pairs on opposite sides of stems. Each leaf is simple, with one blade rather than leaflets. The leaves are oblong, or longer than they are wide. They feel like leather and have no hairs. The stems have no scent. The small flowers are hard to see. The plant then bears white berries. The supplied sources give no height or spread at maturity.

American mistletoe grows on several kinds of trees that shed leaves. Known hosts include red maple and trees in the genus Nyssa. It has many possible hosts across its range. Yet one host species may dominate in a given area. Plants For A Future says hosts must be at least 20 years old. It lists USDA hardiness zones 5–9. It also says gardeners seldom grow this plant. Mistletoe can cause great harm by weakening its host tree. To grow it, press berries onto the host's branches. Do this in late fall or early winter. The source suggests the lower side of a branch. This method may not work.

Its main value in gardens comes from its links with wildlife. NC State lists it for woods and areas where plants naturalize. It also lists gardens for native plants and butterflies. Gardens for pollinators, which carry pollen, are another listed use. The plant draws butterflies and other pollinators. Great purple hairstreak caterpillars feed on it. NC State records a brood from April through June. In Florida, this butterfly may appear as early as January. Weigh these gains for wildlife against harm to host trees.

The berries are not food. The sources record no edible uses. Large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and trouble breathing. They can also cause low blood pressure and a slow pulse. NC State flags risks to cats, dogs, and horses too. Sources disagree on whether touch can cause dermatitis, or inflamed skin. Plants For A Future reports past leaf use for reproductive purposes. These reports do not show that such use is safe. The plant is toxic, so home use as medicine is unsafe.