Common mistletoe - Viscum album (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Common mistletoe

Also known as: Mistletoe

Common mistletoe (Viscum album) is a shrub that grows on the stems of trees. Its native range is in Europe, but it has been imported to North America as well. Common mistletoe is parasitic, getting most of its water and nutrients from the host tree. All portions of the plant are toxic and can be fatal if ingested in concentrated form.

Scientific classification

Species

Common mistletoe (Viscum album)

Sandalwoods, mistletoes and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

50 cm

Plant Height

90 cm

Spread

2 mm to 3 mm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Common mistletoe

Distribution of Common mistletoe

Distribution Map

Common mistletoe is naturally found across a wide range of temperate regions in Europe and Asia. Its range extends from the Mediterranean basin through central and northern Europe, reaching into parts of western and eastern Asia. Introduced populations of common mistletoe have not been highlighted in the data, focusing solely on its native presence across major continental zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Canopies of broadleaf trees, orchards

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Common mistletoe is highly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. All parts of the plant (leaves, stems, berries) contain alkaloids, viscotoxins, and lectins, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, and cardiac issues. Immediate veterinary/hospital care is crucial if ingestion occurs.

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Care Guide for Common mistletoe

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Common mistletoe prefers moist environments with consistent humidity and shows moderate drought tolerance. Watering every 2-3 weeks is ideal. Grown indoors for its ornamental value, common mistletoe needs well-draining soil to avoid root rot caused by excess moisture.

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Images of Common mistletoe

Distribution of Common mistletoe

Toxicity

Care Guide for Common mistletoe

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