Christmas mistletoe isn’t so romantic based on science
Did you know it’s a parasite?
One of the favorite Christmas decorations is mistletoe , the “plant of kisses” hides a secret that makes it not as romantic as its widespread reputation.
In case you didn’t know, based on science, one of the many species of mistletoe that exists is considered a semi- parasite that attacks trees. It is also known as “Phoradendron”, which in the Greek language is called “tree thief”.
Worldwide there are over a thousand types of mistletoe and this one comes from sandalwood. Unlike the sandalwood which feeds on the roots of other trees, the mistletoe parasitizes by penetrating the branches of trees.
How does it do this? You see mistletoe produces these usually red, sticky seeds, which birds eat and then excrete. The seeds are coated with a transparent substance called viscin.
If a bird’s droppings land on a tree, they stick to its branches and there, mistletoe, thanks to viscin, becomes its new host.
Mistletoe is also responsible for stressing the trees, making them appear more vulnerable to insects and disease, explains AgriLife Extension horticulturist Allison Watkins.
It may not be responsible for the death of a tree, but mistletoe can cause deforestation of its limbs. Mistletoe can be toxic to people and pets, though Watkins says a small amount in well-kept gardens shouldn’t be a concern.
To the plant’s credit, it can show kindness by sharing a host tree with a mistletoe friend, increasing photosynthesis for nutrients and causing less damage to trees.
In many ecosystems, its flowers are nectar for bees and a host plant for caterpillars. And damaged trees provide nesting cavities for animals such as birds, bats, insects and even small mammals. Its dense foliage provides welcome shade for many species of animals, especially in dry areas.
For those who don’t know, this Christian adornment is said to come from a custom of the Romans, who used to send tree branches along with other gifts to their friends during the Saturnalia celebration. This custom was also adopted by the first Christians. In one of the edicts of the church of Bracara issued later, its origin is confirmed, as it forbade Christians to decorate their houses with tree branches at the same time as the pagans, as Saturnalia began about a week before Christmas.
