Mistletoe Viscum album
ABOUT
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that typically has smooth, green leaves that are oval or lance-shaped. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow or white in color, and round berries that are white or yellow. The plant has a distinctive growth habit, with stems that grow out from the host plant and produce clusters of leaves and flowers at their tips.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Santalaceae
Synonyms
Kiss-and-go, Mistletoe, Thunder besom, All-heal, Druid's weed
Common names
Viscum album
ToxicityTo humans
All parts of mistletoe, especially the berries, contain toxic substances that can cause serious harm if ingested. Symptoms of mistletoe poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, and even seizures or coma in severe cases. Ingesting mistletoe can be particularly dangerous for young children or pets, and medical attention should be sought immediately if mistletoe is ingested.
To pets
Mistletoe berries are toxic to many animals, including dogs, cats, and livestock. Ingesting mistletoe can cause a variety of symptoms, including gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and seizures. In severe cases, mistletoe poisoning can be fatal. It is important to keep mistletoe and other toxic plants out of reach of pets and livestock to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3,5 feet
Spread
3,5 feet
Plant type
Creeper
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe, Asia, Africa, North America
Benefits
General BenefitsCultural significance: Mistletoe has a long history of cultural and religious significance, particularly during the winter holiday season.
Aesthetic value: Mistletoe can add a decorative touch to holiday wreaths, garlands, and other decorations.
Ecological importance: Mistletoe can play an important role in ecosystems by providing food and habitat for wildlife.
Folklore and mythology: Mistletoe has been the subject of many myths, legends, and folktales, adding to its cultural significance.
Scientific research: Mistletoe has been the subject of scientific research, particularly in the field of cancer treatment, and may have potential therapeutic benefits
Medical PropertiesCancer treatment: Extracts from mistletoe have been used in complementary cancer treatments, with some studies suggesting potential anti-tumor effects and improved quality of life for patients.
Immune system support: Mistletoe has been used in traditional medicine to support the immune system, particularly in the treatment of chronic viral infections.
Cardiovascular health: Mistletoe has been studied for its potential cardiovascular benefits, with some research suggesting it may help regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.
Pain relief: Mistletoe has been used as a traditional remedy for pain relief, particularly in the treatment of headaches and menstrual cramps.
Anxiety and stress relief: Mistletoe has been studied for its potential anxiolytic and calming effects, with some research suggesting it may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress.
Air-purifying QualitiesMistletoe does not have significant air purifying qualities. While some plants are known for their ability to remove harmful toxins from the air, mistletoe is not typically grown for this purpose. It is important to note that mistletoe is toxic and should not be grown in homes with pets or small children who may accidentally ingest it.
Other UsesPagan rituals: Mistletoe has been used in various pagan rituals and celebrations, particularly in the context of winter solstice festivities.
Art and literature: Mistletoe has been a popular subject in art and literature, with many famous works depicting mistletoe in various forms.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiIn feng shui, mistletoe is not traditionally used as a decorative or symbolic element.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThere is no direct zodiac sign compatibility for mistletoe.
Plant SymbolismMistletoe has been associated with various symbolic meanings, including love, fertility, and protection.
WaterMistletoe gets its water and nutrients from the host tree it grows on, so it does not require watering like regular houseplants.
LightMistletoe prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some direct sun, especially in cooler temperatures. It should not be placed in full shade.
TemperatureMistletoe is hardy in USDA zones 5-11 and can survive temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C) if grown outdoors. If grown indoors, mistletoe prefers cool temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) and can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C).
PruningPruning mistletoe is not recommended, as it can harm the host tree and may result in the death of the mistletoe. If mistletoe needs to be removed, it is best to hire a professional arborist to do so.
CleaningNot needed
SoilMistletoe is a parasitic plant that does not grow in soil like typical houseplants. Instead, it grows on the branches of host trees and derives its nutrients from them. As a result, there is no specific soil type or pH that is recommended for mistletoe.
RepottingSince mistletoe does not grow in a pot, it does not need to be repotted.
Humidity & MistingMistletoe prefers high humidity levels, as it grows in humid forest environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not growing
Outdoor
All year round
Hardiness zone
6-11 USDA
Life cycleMistletoe has a complex life cycle that involves several stages:
Seed Germination: Mistletoe seeds are covered in a sticky substance that adheres to the bark of a host tree. When conditions are right, the seed germinates and sends out a root-like structure called a haustorium that penetrates the host tree's bark and connects to its vascular system.
Vegetative Growth: Once the haustorium is established, the mistletoe plant begins to grow vegetatively, producing leaves and stems that contain chlorophyll and can perform photosynthesis. The plant uses the host tree's nutrients and water to fuel its growth.
Reproductive Growth: After a few years of vegetative growth, mistletoe plants develop flowers that are pollinated by insects. Once pollinated, the flowers develop into berries that contain one or more seeds.
Dispersal: The berries are dispersed by birds that eat the berries and excrete the seeds. The sticky substance on the seed surface helps the seed stick to the branches of the host tree, allowing it to germinate and start the life cycle anew.
End of Life: Mistletoe plants can live for several years, but they eventually die and decompose. If the host tree is healthy, mistletoe growth will not harm it significantly. However, heavy mistletoe infestations can weaken the host tree and make it more susceptible to other pests and diseases.
PropogationPropogation time
Winter
Seed propagation: Mistletoe seeds can be collected from mature berries and sown onto the branches of a host tree. The seeds will then germinate and grow into new mistletoe plants.
Grafting: Another way to propagate mistletoe is by grafting a piece of the plant onto a host tree. The mistletoe will then grow and spread throughout the tree.
Stem cutting: Mistletoe can also be propagated through stem cuttings, but this method is less common and requires more effort. Stem cuttings can be taken from mature mistletoe plants and rooted in a rooting hormone before being planted onto a host tree.
PestsVine weevil
DiseasesPowdery mildew, Rust