Phoradendron leucarpum
American mistletoe, American Mistletoe
(c) M. Socorro González Elizondo, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by M. Socorro González Elizondo · licence
Family: Viscaceae · Type: Shrub · Native
Phoradendron leucarpum (American mistletoe) is a native California shrub in the Viscaceae family, recognized by Large broad green leaves (to 60 mm) on hardwoods (vs scale-leaved *P. californicum*/*P. juniperinum*).
American mistletoe is a native perennial found in western California woodlands and forest edges, typically growing on tree branches. Flowering in winter to early spring, this plant produces small, inconspicuous white to pinkish flowers in compact clusters. Growing with erect to spreading green stems 15 to 59 millimeters long, it develops thick, leathery obovate leaves 15 to 60 millimeters long that are slightly petioled and somewhat glabrous. Its distinctive features include white berries 4 to 5 millimeters long that can be tinged with pink, characteristic of its parasitic nature on tree branches. The fruit develops in dense, compact clusters that provide food for various bird species during winter months.
Identification and appearance
Key characters: Large broad green leaves (to 60 mm) on hardwoods (vs scale-leaved *P. californicum*/*P. juniperinum*)
Habitat and range
California counties: San Bernardino, San Diego
How to tell it apart
vs Viscum: Phoradendron has smaller leaves (<47mm) and berries (3-6mm); Viscum has thick waxy leaves (50-80mm) and large berries (6-10mm).; vs Arceuthobium: Phoradendron has obvious oval leaves and grows >8 inches; Arceuthobium has tiny scales and stays <8 inches on conifers.; vs Eriogonum: Phoradendron grows as leafy mistletoe up in trees; Eriogonum is a ground-level shrub or herb with flower clusters.; vs Quercus: Phoradendron is the leafy parasite growing on the oak; Quercus is the host tree with acorns.; vs Euphorbia: Phoradendron grows as mistletoe in tree canopy; Euphorbia grows at ground level with milky sap when broken.
Frequently asked questions
Is Phoradendron leucarpum native to California?
Yes. Phoradendron leucarpum is native to California (recorded as native).
Where in California does Phoradendron leucarpum grow?
Phoradendron leucarpum occurs in San Bernardino, San Diego.
What plant family does Phoradendron leucarpum belong to?
Phoradendron leucarpum is in the Viscaceae family, genus Phoradendron.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · Index of California Plant Names · CalPhotos
Last updated 2026-10-07
Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Cal-IPC, and more.