Deck the halls …
The mistletoe hung in the old castle hall. The holly branch shone on the old oak wall…. Thus go the lyrics of a ballad. There are some plants that are an essential part of the festivities. Find out more about some of them.
Holly
No matter how the cold the winter, this bushy plant remains green. Even better, it’s a no-fuss plant, meaning it doesn’t need much maintenance. In December, the branches sprout with flamboyant red berries that make a splash of colour amid the white of the snow and the dark green of the leaves. It is used in Christmas decorations as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice: the spikes symbolise the crown of thorns that Jesus had to wear; the red berries his blood; and the green leaves everlasting life.
Mistletoe
Also known as the kissing bought, this parasitic plant grows on trees and shrubs. While its association with Christmas dates back to the 1700s. A bough with plenty of berries is used in decorating homes and anyone caught under the mistletoe can be kissed. In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, the plant is associated with peace and is a symbol of protection. In Celtic Druid tradition, it is a symbol of fertility as it grows throughout the year.
Fir
What’s Christmas without the Christmas tree? More often than not, it is the fir that is the tree of choice. However, this evergreen was used in festivals much before Christmas. The ancient Romans decorated their homes with fir branches in the New Year, as did folks in Northern Europe as a sign of the spring to come. The tradition of the Christmas tree originated in Germany and the Baltic states and came to England when the German Prince Albert married Queen Victoria. From here, it spread across the world.
Poinsettias
Here is a traditional Christmas plant that comes not from Europe or the U.S. but from Mexico. The story goes that a poor girl wanted to give baby Jesus a present during the service. Since she didn’t have any money to spend, she created a small bouquet from weeds that she had picked by the roadside. When she placed her offering in the manger at the Nativity scene, it miraculously became the blazing Poinsettia.