Holly and Mistletoe

Holly  

Holly is a genus of about 600 species of flowering plants in the family Aquifoliaceae, and the only genus in that family. The tradition of holly can probably be traced back to Roman times. A symbol of persistence and immortality, it was placed in the front of churches and then brought home by the peasants where it would protect them from lightning and curses. Nowadays you can still find it in our homes come Christmastime but only as a decoration.

Mistletoe

Celts and Druids revered mistletoe and attributed many powers to it such as protection against death and a source of good fortune. Nowadays, what remains of the tradition is kissing under the mistletoe on New Year’s day to bring happiness for the year. Mistletoe is commonly used as a Christmas decoration. Viscum album is used in Europe whereas Phoradendron serotinum is used in North America.

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