Mistletoe – Tradition, Meaning & Decorating Tips
Mistletoe sprig — tradition, meaning & decorating tips
Why do people kiss under the mistletoe? History, symbolism, and how to decorate with mistletoe
The mistletoe sprig is one of the oldest and most mysterious plants in European tradition — from Druid rituals and Norse mythology to the Christmas kiss beneath the doorway.
Why do people kiss under the mistletoe?
The custom comes from England and has been documented since the 18th century. The rule was simple: anyone standing beneath a hanging sprig of mistletoe may (and should!) be kissed. Traditionally, one berry was removed from the branch after each kiss — once all the berries were gone, the kissing stopped.
The custom spread from England to North America and across much of Europe — and in Austria, too, it is becoming increasingly popular, especially at Christmas and on New Year's Eve.
History & Mythology
Celts and Druids
For the Celtic Druids, mistletoe was a sacred plant. Because it grows on trees without touching the ground, it was seen as a gift from the gods — a plant suspended between heaven and earth. Druids cut mistletoe with a golden sickle, especially the rare oak mistletoe.
Norse mythology: Baldur
In Norse legend, the god Baldur was killed by an arrow made of mistletoe wood — the only plant that was forgotten when all living beings swore not to harm him. His mother Frigg (goddess of love) then declared mistletoe the plant of love — and anyone standing beneath it should be kissed as a sign of peace.
Romans
The Romans, too, saw mistletoe as a symbol of peace and protection. Enemies who met beneath a sprig of mistletoe laid down their weapons.
Mistletoe — a botanical look
- Semi-parasite: Mistletoe (Viscum album) grows on trees and draws water and nutrients from them — but it also carries out photosynthesis itself (which is why it is considered “semi”).
- Evergreen: Green even in the depths of winter — that’s what made it so mystical to ancient cultures.
- White berries: The sticky white berries are a winter food source for birds. Birds spread the seeds to other trees (they stick to beaks and feet).
- Host trees: Apple trees, lindens, poplars, birches — more rarely on oaks (which is why oak mistletoe was especially revered).
- Growth: Very slow — a spherical mistletoe bush can live for 30–50 years.
Caution: Mistletoe berries are poisonous — especially for children and pets. When hanging them up, make sure no berries fall to the floor. If swallowed: contact poison control.
Mistletoe Decorations
- Classic: Tie a mistletoe branch with a red ribbon and hang it above the door. Done — and beautifully effective.
- In a wreath: Work mistletoe into an Advent wreath or door wreath — together with fir and red berries.
- Table decoration: Individual mistletoe sprigs as table decorations — in small vases or on the plate as napkin decor.
- Gift topper: A small mistletoe sprig on a Christmas gift — romantic and original.
- How long does it last? Fresh mistletoe keeps for weeks — it dries out slowly, but stays decorative.
Where can you get mistletoe? From florists (from November/December), at Christmas markets, or — for the brave — in the wild. In Austria, mistletoe grows on many fruit trees. But be careful: cutting it without the landowner’s permission is not allowed.
The tradition surrounding the mistletoe branch has a long history — especially at Christmas, it’s simply a must.
The tradition of the mistletoe branch goes back centuries — especially at Christmas, it’s simply part of it.
Christmas Greenery at MO BLUMEN Vienna
Mistletoe branches, fir wreaths, and festive decorations — delivered throughout Vienna.
Frequently asked questions
Traditionally from the first Sunday of Advent or the beginning of December — and it stays hanging until 6 January (Epiphany). In England, it is burned afterwards (otherwise it brings bad luck, according to tradition). In Austria, people are less strict about it — the branch can stay up until it dries out.
Yes — the white berries contain viscotoxins and lectins, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and circulatory problems if swallowed. For small children, even a few berries can be dangerous. Pets (especially cats and dogs) are also at risk. When hanging it up, watch out for fallen berries.
The kissing tradition comes from England and is less deeply rooted in Austria than it is there. In recent years, however, it has become more popular through films, Christmas markets, and international influences. Mistletoe branches as Christmas decorations and good-luck charms are certainly common in Austria — even without any obligation to kiss.
The meaning of the mistletoe branch goes far back into history. In Norse mythology, mistletoe was sacred to the goddess of love Frigga, which is how the tradition of a kiss under the mistletoe came about. The plant belongs to the group of so-called hemiparasites, as it grows on trees and lets its roots wind into the bark. The white, sticky berries of mistletoe were once believed to protect against evil spirits. Mistletoe also became widely known through Asterix and Obelix, where the druid Getafix gathers it for his magic potion. By the way, the berries of mistletoe are poisonous to humans and should not be eaten.
Discover more: Christmas flowers Vienna · Flowers in Winter · Order winter bouquets