The Story of the Mistletoe
Mistletoe Becomes a Christmas Tradition
Mistletoe is a plant that grows on a range of trees including willow, apple, oaks, maples, pecan, alder, hickory, elm, and cottonwood. It is easy to see the clumps in certain trees during the winter months as they are very visible on the bare trees. There are 1500 species of mistletoe, varying widely in toxicity to humans; the European mistletoe (Viscum album) is more toxic than the American mistletoe. The tradition of hanging it in the house supposedly goes back to the times of the ancient Druids; however, there's little evidence that this happened. Read more at Mistletoe - Wikipedia
In nature the first known reference to smooching under the plant known as mistletoe dates to a 1784 English poem, in which three men “kiss beneath the mistletoe” the lips of a “girl not turn’d of twenty.” By then, any woman or girl who walked beneath this vegetal decor had to stop and wait to be kissed.
As Christianity spread, many pagan customs blended with new traditions, and mistletoe found its place in Christmas celebrations. Initially used in midwinter rituals, mistletoe’s association with love and protection made it an ideal addition to any Christmas décor. When the first Christians came to Western Europe, some tried to ban the use of Mistletoe as a decoration in Churches, because of some of the old stories about it, but many still continued to use it. York Minster Church in the UK used it to hold a special Mistletoe Service in the winter, where wrong doers in the city of York could come and be pardoned.
By the 18th century, mistletoe was firmly established as a festive tradition, hanging in homes to bring holiday cheer. It soon became a symbol of peace and goodwill, blending with Christmas customs to enrich the season’s warmth.
The mistletoe seen here hanging from the arbor is in the beautiful Reinhardwald Forest in Germany.
The Tradition of Kissing Under the Mistletoe
The tradition of kissing under mistletoe gained popularity in the Victorian era, becoming a cherished holiday custom. According to tradition, each kiss beneath the mistletoe required plucking one of its berries, and the kissing rights ended when the berries were gone. This practice became an exciting addition to Christmas parties, encouraging playful moments and spreading romance and joy among friends and family. There were illustrations of kissing under the mistletoe in the first book version of 'A Christmas Carol' published in 1843, and this might have helped to popularize the custom. How Mistletoe Became a Christmas Kissing Tradition
Modern Mistletoe: Inviting Love, and Goodwill into Your Home
In today’s world, mistletoe still retains its role as a holiday charm. Families and couples use mistletoe to decorate their homes, bringing in a touch of love, warmth and connection. Hanging mistletoe is a simple yet festive way to add joy to holiday gatherings. Mistletoe’s unique beauty and holiday symbolism serve as a reminder of the importance of love, friendship, and goodwill.
Mistletoe hanging on a frosty window…the weather outside is frightful!
A Green Touch of Tradition and Nature
The lush green leaves and white berries of mistletoe add a natural, festive touch to Christmas decor. Many people choose to hang mistletoe over doorways, symbolizing the welcome of love and peace into the home. Mistletoe represents more than holiday cheer—it’s a connection to the traditions of the past. This small plant carries a legacy of ancient celebrations, making it a meaningful addition to Christmas festivities that invites moments of togetherness and warmth.
Embrace the Tradition of Mistletoe This Christmas
Mistletoe’s presence in our Christmas celebrations links us to traditions that span centuries. While we may no longer harvest it for medicinal cures, mistletoe remains a symbol of love and joy. Its ability to bring people together, inspire shared smiles, and spread festive cheer make it a beloved part of Christmas. As you celebrate this Christmas season, remember the rich history behind mistletoe, and let its timeless charm bring a bit of warmth into your home. Enjoy the poem by Walter de La Mare.
Mistletoe
Sitting under the mistletoe
(Pale-green, fairy mistletoe),
One last candle burning low,
All the sleepy dancers gone,
Just one candle burning on,
Shadows lurking everywhere:
Someone came and kissed me there.
Tired I was; my head would go
Nodding under the mistletoe
(Pale-green, fairy mistletoe),
No footsteps came, no voice, but only,
Just as I sat there, sleepy, lonely,
Stooped in the still and shadowy air
Lips unseen—and kissed me there.