Mistletoe (Viscum album)

Mistletoe (Viscum album)

The origins of mistletoe symbolism appear to stem from different cultures.

In one Norse story, Balder (the son of Odin, the god of war and death) is killed with an arrow made of mistletoe. Balder's mother, Frigg, is so upset that her tears turn to white berries which cover the plant and symbolize her love for him.

Interpretations vary, but it seems this was the starting point for mistletoe's association with love. There are records of mistletoe legends from other cultures, such as the Celts who hung sprigs above the door.  It was believed that mistletoe brings good luck and keeps the evil spirits at bay. Also, its evergreen leaves and ability to bloom in winter mean the plant has long been seen as a symbol of eternal life and vitality.

Despite its romantic reputation, mistletoe is actually poisonous to humans. It contains a toxic substance called phoratoxin, which is particularly concentrated in the leaves.

Mistletoe grows parasitically on trees – it doesn't usually kill the tree, but it can weaken it. Although mistletoe is photosynthetically active (evergreen leaves!), it depends on its host tree for nutrients and water.

Found on https://www.kew.org/read-and-watch/mistletoe-christmas-tradition