a parasitic plant found mainly on the Pinaceae, especially Abies sp., in the northern hemisphere —note 1. Phoradendron sp. are found mostly on hardwoods in the East and Southwest, or on Cupressaceae and Abies in the Southwest and Pacific coast; they are also found in Mexico —note 2. Viscum sp. parasitize trees in Europe; V. album parasitizes hardwoods and is the most important species —note 3. Psittacanthus sp. are widespread and sometimes serious pests on Pinus, Abies, or Cupressus sp. in Mexico and Central America —synonym true mistletoe —see dwarf mistletoe This definition last updated 07/11/2008