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An endemic Hawaiian mistletoe, Korthalsella complanata, as a parasite on a branch of Acacia koa. [photo by J. B. Friday]

An endemic Hawaiian mistletoe, Korthalsella complanata, as a parasite on a branch of Acacia koa. [photo by J. B. Friday]

 

Definition

Mistletoe is a type of parasitic seed plant that grows as a parasite on other plants.

Etymology. O.E. mistiltan, from mistel "mistletoe" + tan "twig." First element is from P.Gmc. *mikhstilaz (cf. O.H.G. mistil). Venerated by the Druids; the custom of hanging it at Christmas and kissing under it is mentioned by Washington Irving.