GARDEN ADVICE

Mistletoe

Mistletoe is a strange plant with a strange history. It seems to be closely associated with Scandinavian mythology. In characteristically torrid Norse style, the legend has it that an evil spirit worked mischief to contrive the death of the good looking Baldr. As a result of being struck by an arrow made of Mistletoe, Baldr was restored to life. Mistletoe was given to his mother, Frigg. As long as the Mistletoe did not touch the earth it was under her control and thence came the tradition that it should be suspended from ceilings. Kissing under the Mistletoe is a sign of peace and love to prove that the plant is no longer the bringer of mischief. It is strange then that we should associate this plant with the Christian festival of Christmas. However if it is a sign of peace and love then it seems appropriate enough.

Mistletoe is of course a parasitic plant. Although it has green leaves and can therefore manufacture food, it attaches itself to a host plant by way of suckers. The parasite's roots enter the host and often branches inside. The Mistletoe usually seen in Britain is Viscum album with its white berries. Its hosts are usually Lime trees, Apple, Maple, Poplar, Willow, Sorbus and Hawthorn. The Lime trees at Hampton Court and Bushy Park often sported a good display of this festive plant. Mistletoe doesn't seem to do too much damage to the host tree in Britain although there are reports in the tropics that some species are threatening the establishment of indigenous hardwood trees, particularly in part of India and Central America.