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Thursday, December 23, 2010

European Mistletoe

 (european mistletoe found at wikimedia commons and under creative commons)

If  you walk outside and look in a deciduous tree or hardwood you notice that you have a bunch of green vines up a tree. Cats Claw is green in springtime sometimes, but most of the time, you find mistletoe!

  Mistletoe creeps all over almost every continent. It's extremely poisonous and only for decorations only. Don't allow any kids or pets to get a hold of it. If a tree falls in your pasture and you know it has mistletoe make sure you get it away from your horses, cattle and goats. Mistletoe causes gastrointestinal issues and low heart rate in the victims of it's poisons.

   Mistletoe is hemi-parasitic meaning it has to have a tree to obtain growth and mass. Parasitic meaning it uses nutrients from the host tree for it's own growth and health. If you see a juniper tree, you'll notice more berries on the tree because the mistletoe also brings nutrients back to the host by attracting it's visitors like the Great Horned Owl and Diamond Fire tails.

   The Lore was taken from Greek Mythology, and is practiced during the holidays each year. It is said if you stand under the mistletoe, you must kiss your loved one.  Obviously, we know those are old wives tales that don't come true, but it is rather beautiful hanging from the ceiling of a chandelier or from a doorway. Have a merry Christmas and happy new year.

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