The holiday season is upon us. Many of us hang a sprig of mistletoe over a doorway during the holidays because it allows us to “kiss” someone when they often are not expecting it. European folklore speaks of mistletoe as a symbol of love, peace, and good will, while the ancient Druids of Britain used it to celebrate the coming of winter – thus our use of it during the wintry Christmas/New Year holiday season.
There are about 36 species of native mistletoe in the U.S. and Canada. The genus name for American mistletoe is Phoradendron, which means “tree thief” because the plant is parasitic. This evergreen shrub is found growing in the tops of hardwood trees in the eastern and southern U.S. and as far west as Texas. It prefers oak, elm, and poplar for its hosts, but is not particularly fussy. It relies on the trees for water and minerals and slowly kills them over time.
As sad as this relationship is, mistletoe is useful for many birds and butterflies as well as large and small critters – not only for food, but also for shelter and nesting. So enjoy this holiday plant knowing it is useful for more things than just kissing!
Read about the many legends associated with mistletoe.
Thanks for your interesting column! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too Donna.
Roger and Connie Kanitz
You too, Roger and Connie — Donna
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Donna!
You too, Barb — Donna
Love your articles, Donna. Thank you for all you do. We appreciate you so much!