American Mistletoe (Noun)
Meaning 1
Small herb with scalelike leaves on reddish-brown stems and berrylike fruits; parasitic on spruce and larch trees.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The larch tree was overrun with creeping vines of american mistletoe that had taken root and begun to drain its nutrients.
- Experts warn that american mistletoe is slowly killing off endangered larch trees due to its parasitic nature.
- Due to the translucent scales of american mistletoe leaves the overall appearance of a cluster resembles a yellow-green jellylike mass.
- As a shrub or a tree forms an intimate relationship with the american mistletoe over time both organisms suffer but neither solely benefits.
- This type of christmas decoration american mistletoe that is wrapped around a ribbon can still cause considerable harm to a conifer within two to three years if not disposed of properly.
Synonyms
Meaning 2
The traditional mistletoe of Christmas in America: grows on deciduous trees and can severely weaken the host plant.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- American mistletoe is often associated with romantic Christmas traditions, but it can also pose a serious threat to the health of its host trees.
- The use of American mistletoe in Christmas decorations dates back centuries, but the plant itself has been growing on deciduous trees for thousands of years.
- Gardeners across the United States are advised to be on the lookout for American mistletoe, as it can severely weaken and even kill its host plant.
- While many Americans consider American mistletoe to be a festive and fun part of the holiday season, others view it as a destructive invasive species.
- Some botanists are working to educate the public about the risks associated with American mistletoe, which can harm or kill its host trees over time.