A semi-parasitic shrub, Mistletoe has chlorophyll and produces its own food but sends its roots into its host tree to derive water and minerals, causing very little injury in the process. Easiest to see in the winter, the evergreen Mistletoe grows in 1-3 feet wide clumps on deciduous trees. Small flowers mature into whitish yellow fruits. Birds pick out and eat the sticky seeds in the fruit, only to leave some behind on a tree branch where the seeds germinate and produce new plants.

Latin Name: Phoradendron Leucarpum

Habitat: Swamp

Species Alert! Poisonous when eaten