Phoradendron californicum  Mesquite Mistletoe
PERENNIAL.  Dense bundles of leafless, stringy branches grow as parasites on woody legumes (Prosopis, Cercidium, Acacia, etc.).  Branches are dark green in summer but turn reddish brown in winter when the berries ripen.  Berries are white, strongly flushed with pink, orange, or red.  Provides food and nesting sites for the Phainopepla.  Occasional in the Empires, usually on larger trees along washes.
FAMILY:  Viscaceae  (Mistletoe Family)