american mistletoe

noun

Meaning

A parasitic evergreen plant native to North America that grows on the branches of trees and is traditionally used as a Christmas decoration.

Examples

  • The American mistletoe thrives by drawing water and nutrients from the host tree it colonizes.
  • Unlike its European counterpart, the American mistletoe produces white berries that are a vital food source for local birds during winter.

Synonyms: mistletoe