How is mistletoe formed?

Answer 1

Mistletoe is a semi-parasitic plant that forms when its seeds, often spread by birds, germinate on the branches of host trees. The seeds penetrate the tree's bark and develop haustoria, specialized structures that allow the mistletoe to extract water and nutrients from the host. Over time, mistletoe grows into a green, leafy plant that can produce its own photosynthesis, while still relying on the host for sustenance. This relationship can sometimes weaken or harm the host tree if the mistletoe population becomes too large.