1. Woody perennial, parasitic on oaks and other deciduous trees in Eastern United States; bushy dense growth 1-4 feet in diameter in branches of these trees

2. Leaves are opposite, oblong to obovate, fleshy but leathery feel and appearance

3. Fruits are globose, white to cream color, translucent

1. Phoratoxin, a toxalbumin, has been listed as the toxic principle.

2. Some effects due to substances that interfere with regulation of blood pressure

1. Usually see problems in puppies or kittens that chew on the plant which is used as a Christmas decoration

2. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, pale

3. Not a serious clinical problem

1. Remove decoration and/or animal from each other

2. Fluids and electrolytes

3. Symptomatic care