Almost every door seems to have a sprig of mistletoe at Christmas. So, what exactly is it?
What is Mistletoe?
Believe it or not, mistletoe is a parasite. It sends its roots down into its host plant, tapping into its water and nutrients to keep it alive. Its botanical name is Phoradendron, which comes from the Latin words for thief and tree. So, Tree Thief!
However, it is considered a keystone species: Studies have found that forests with a moderate amount of mistletoe are more ecologically healthy than those without. They provide abundant berries and nectar, nutritious leaves, secure nesting sites, and enriched leaf litter on the ground. This makes them an essential resource for many plants and animals in their environment.
Mistletoe in Virginia?
Mistletoe is found in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. This means they are found in certain areas in Virginia—mainly swampy areas near the coast. It is also found in Europe and Mexico. It is spread by birds that eat the seeds and defecate on other trees—hence, it’s referred to by an interesting nickname. Mistel means “dung,” and tan means “twig.” So you could say it’s “Dung on a Twig.”
Why We Kiss Under the Mistletoe
So why is kissing associated with mistletoe? Because it is often green and grows and produces flowers and berries in the middle of winter, an ancient man saw it as a symbol of life and fertility.
There is also a Roman legend with Baldur, the son of the goddess Frigg, being shot by an arrow made of mistletoe. She vowed that it would never be used as a weapon again. When Baldur was resurrected, Frigg declared it a symbol of love and promised to kiss anyone walking beneath it.
Let’s All Practice Love and Non-Violence
So enjoy your mistletoe and know that it has a long history of love and non-violence beneath it—and a pretty interesting history.