Mistletoe Definition:
The word "Mistletoe" has its origins from two Anglo-Saxon words. The first word is "tan" (twig) and the second word is from the, "mistel" (dung). An Old English version of the word “Mistletoe is, misteltan. It also derives from the Celtic word "for all-heal". The common name of various parasitic plants which the mistletoe plant is classified as is the family Loranthaceae. There are two common types of mistletoe plants. This is a larger Christmas Mistletoe Ball that is easy to spot for those who are looking for a holiday kiss.
United States Mistletoe:
The US has a variety of mistletoe which is similar to the European variety. The scientific name is Phoradendron Flavescens. In the US, it grows in both subtropical and tropical regions from Eastern Texas to Florida and North along the Eastern states. Mistletoe grows on what is known as deciduous trees. It likes and thrives best on Elm trees and Red Maple trees. The American variety is similar to the European mistletoe except it produces more leaves and berries. It also has small, beautiful flowers which can be in a wide variety of colors. The most common is yellow but bright red or green are seen blooming in February and March. Select to view and buy our American Mistletoe the Plant.
European Mistletoe:
The European mistletoe named Viscum Album, grows on a variety of trees. The most popular trees are the juniper and apple. The body or base of the European Mistletoe that attaches to a hoist tree branch has a dark green stick-like stem. Branching outward from the base stem are several pairs of green pointy, leathery, football shaped leaves that grow in clusters. The European evergreen shrub variety also produces small greenish delicate flowers. Young mistletoe plants do not flower until they have matured. Flowers start to appear on the plant in about five years. At the intersection of the stems, white or red waxy fruits or berries grow in a dense cluster. Select to see all of our Mistletoe, Christmas Greenery, Christmas Picks plus our Christmas Mistletoe Ball shown above.
Mistletoe Folklore:
One of the early beliefs was that mistletoe grew from birds landing on branches of trees. The small white berry clusters produced by the mistletoe plant are often eaten by birds. The bird droppings are left on the tree branches to seed. The juices that are made in these white seeds are sticky and they stay on the tree branches. After eating the sticky mistletoe seed, birds will often wipe their beaks on the branches to remove the sticky remains. It takes about six weeks for a mistletoe plant to start growing. Select to go and view all of our fine Christmas Decorations Ideas we have.
How Does The Mistletoe Plant Live?
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant and it uses tree branches as its host. As the mistletoe grows on a host tree it grows roots that in turn penetrates the host’s protective bark. Then these roots absorb the trees nutrients. The plant is easy to spot in the winter because it's leaves stay green all year long like an Evergreen. You will want to see this 4 Inch Under The Mistletoe Ball for your holiday party. You will also want to check out our large selection of Holiday Lights and Decorative Party Lights to enhance your party decor.
