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We are fortunate to have a beautiful clump of mistletoe (Viscum album) growing on Horfield Common. It is especially striking in winter, when the host tree has shed its leaves and the bright green, rounded clusters stand out clearly against the bare branches.
This particular plant is growing on a Crab Apple, Malus ‘Butterball’, which is a typical host for mistletoe as it grows mainly on apple, lime, hawthorn and poplar.
There are over 1000 species of mistletoe worldwide, yet just this one native UK species. Although mistletoe is a semi-parasitic plant, drawing water and nutrients from its host, it also produces its own food through photosynthesis. In this case, it is doing no damage to the tree. It spreads mainly through birds, especially mistle thrushes. They feed on the sticky white berries and deposit the seeds onto branches, where they adhere to the bark and, if conditions are right, begin to grow. There are a few other instances of mistletoe on the Common, but this is the most accessible and easiest to spot. You can find it a little bit north-east of the Lower Common Wildlife Pond. If you are walking nearby, take a moment to look up. It is a small but fascinating reminder of the ecological relationships quietly unfolding in this green space.
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Ellie Kilby, our newest volunteer, joined FoHC at the end of 2025 after earning her MSc in Conservation Leadership. Here’s what she has to share about starting her journey with us… “I was eager to commit to something that allowed me to give back to the local community while drawing on my studies and previous volunteer experience across different cultural contexts. Growing up in the countryside, I am really interested in learning from volunteering in a city setting. Alongside FoHC, I also volunteer with another city project, East London Waterworks Park, and between the two roles, I hope to generate new ideas and put my skills to practical, meaningful use. Since December, I’ve taken on a full-time role with a sustainable energy organisation in Bristol, aiming to dedicate a few hours a week to my voluntary commitments. I’m especially looking forward to helping with marketing and communications, helping organise AGM's and exploring grant and fundraising opportunities.
This opportunity feels like a great way to connect with others who care about their community and the places they live, whether through hands-on activities, sharing ideas, or simply being part of a supportive network. I would highly recommend getting involved if you’re looking to give back, use your skills in a rewarding way, and enjoy collaborative conversations. It's also another opportunity to get outside and perhaps a little muddy... my first task was helping dig out the pond on Horfield Common!"  A soggy January leads to a muddy Litter Pick, but we had a dedicated group braving the elements to kick off the first Pick of 2026! A big thank you to our wonderful Pickers, who make a grey day exciting and do so much to help keep the Common free from rubbish. While we had to finish early due to (more) rain, we still collected a hefty amount! We haven't had any new faces at the Litter Pick for a while and would love to see you in February - come say hello and join in! The next Pick is Saturday 28th February, 10am - 12pm, meeting at the Ardagh gates.  |
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