Viscum Album (Noun)
Meaning
Old World parasitic shrub having branching greenish stems with leathery leaves and waxy white glutinous berries; the traditional mistletoe of Christmas.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- Viscum album is a hemiparasitic plant that grows on the branches of various tree species in Europe and Asia.
- The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe, specifically Viscum album, is believed to have originated in ancient Europe.
- Viscum album has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in the treatment of various cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
- In some European countries, Viscum album is considered a symbol of love, fertility, and good luck during the Christmas season.
- The white berries of Viscum album are highly toxic and can cause severe poisoning if ingested, making it a potentially hazardous plant for young children and pets.