Mistletoe

A Mistletoe plant is a parasite that flowers during the winter solstice and has become synonymous with Christmas. Mistletoe is usually cut and hung around as Christmas decoration. It is customary for two people meeting beneath the Mistletoe to kiss.

When going out to buy mistletoe, look for a plant that has bright berries and deep green leaves. Christmas mistletoe is most often Viscum album if used in Europe, and Phoradendron serotinum if used in the United States. The mistletoe was Oklahoma’s state flower until 2004 when the Oklahoma rose usurped its position.

Mistletoe pictures show how the plant remains green during winter. So does holly and the two plants share Christmas popularity. Mistletoe the plant is also referred to as the vampire plant, because it drains the water and nutriment from its host. It is interesting to know how did the druids use mistletoe. They thought it was a cure for poison but it is actually toxic itself. A mistletoe plant is often a place where birds nest and it is a vital part of the ecosystem. In Australia it has been found that many of the local birds nest and feed on the mistletoe plant and rather than being a pest, the plant is beneficial to the forest.

The history of mistletoe is colourful. Once part of the solstice ritual in pagan times, it has been adopted to Christmas celebrations. Again it is because of the timing of its blooms. Although once thought of as a pest, it has now been found to be a helpful plant and its once dark reputation has been repudiated.

A mistletoe ecard would be indicative of wanting to kiss the recipient. The custom of kissing beneath the mistletoe is a recent addition to the plant’s history. The same reason would apply to anyone wearing a mistletoe hat. The wearer obviously wants to get kissed! This rather odd mistletoe tradition lasts only during the Christmas season, so at other times there is not as much interest in the plant.

To make a card, ecard or printed card with pictures of mistletoe, there are examples of mistletoe clip art online. The idea of ecards or making personalized cards by printing them off the computer is becoming popular and is an inexpensive way of keeping in touch.

Finding fresh mistletoe might be difficult but a nursery should have a supply around Christmas. Having mistletoe as a Christmas decoration is an important part of the festive season.