Mistletoe might be my favourite word. It rolls off the tongue with a musical lilt and has connotations of mystique. Steeped in legend, it first came to my attention as a child, when there was usually a small bunch of the hemiparasitic evergreen hanging in the living room. The kissing beneath it tradition was explained, and over time, I learnt that its origins stem from customs, some associated with Greek and Roman mythology, and old fertility rites. Ancient Druids and Celts considered the plant to bring good luck and thought it was sacred, especially if it came from an oak tree.
Being drawn to the beautiful plant emanating serenity, with connections to Yule, I decided to write this blog post and browsed through my photographs for the website and social media.
I came across a few; my current timeline image fits in perfectly, as it already features a mistletoe tree ornament. I’ve even painted sprigs in watercolours as part of illustrations in my children’s story, Clarence Noel, written when my son and daughter were young. Please see my ‘Mouse In Our Christmas Tree‘ article.
A few winters ago, I was elated to see Mistletoe flourishing on bare gnarled apple tree branches in a local orchard. Although the pearl-like berries and satin foliage are poisonous to humans and pets if ingested, they make a great feast for birds, the shrub’s seeds being spread through their droppings.
I fancied hanging some in our hallway during this festive period, but couldn’t find any for sale in the shops. Lastly, I tried our neighbourhood garden centre. They told me it was rarely located in Cornwall, but showed me a pretty artificial piece, which I bought. It looks fairly realistic, but I’m still on the lookout for the real thing.
In many countries, the woodland marvel is believed to be a symbol of love and peace – a splendid idea and one I think I’ll adopt.
Wishing you all a joyous Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
Warmest best wishes, Sue. X
PS. I’ve just been singing along to Mistletoe and Wine on the radio. With its meaningful lyrics and Cliff Richard’s velvety voice, it’s one of the best Christmas songs.