Mistletoe’s reputation as a plant of mystery predates its holiday charm. Ancient Druids in Europe held mistletoe in high regard, particularly when it grew on oak trees, which were considered sacred.

Mistletoe has a dark side because some species are bad for the environment. “It can harm and kill trees,” said Nicole Keleher, forest health director.

Since mistletoe could bloom in the depths of winter, the Druids saw it as a magical sign of life. They would give it to both humans and animals in the hopes of restoring fertility.

American mistletoe (Phoradendron leucarpum), ranges widely throughout the eastern U.S. and west to California and Oregon. Its northern limits are on the Ohio side of the Ohio River Valley.

Mistletoe is a plant that instantly makes a lot of us think of Christmas When we think of Christmas, lots of traditions spring to mind like holly wreaths, Christmas trees, presents and Father ...

The festive parasite mistletoe’s sticky prowess explained. Skip to main content. Scientific American. October 1, 2022. 2 min read. Mistletoe’s Ridiculously Clingy Seeds Could Make a Biological ...