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 Druidic rituals and Norse mythology to the Christmas kiss beneath the doorway.
Why do people kiss under the mistletoe?
This tradition comes from England and has been documented since the 18th century. The rule: anyone standing beneath a hanging sprig of mistletoe may (and should!) be kissed. Traditionally, one berry was removed after each kiss — and once all the berries were gone, the kissing was over.
The custom spread from England to North America and across much of Europe — and it is becoming increasingly popular in Austria as well, especially at Christmas and 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 forgotten when all living things 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 perspective
- Hemiparasite: Mistletoe (Viscum album) grows on trees and taps into their water and nutrients — but it also carries out photosynthesis itself (which is why it is considered “hemi”).
- Evergreen: Green even in the depths of winter — that’s what made it so mystical for 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 their 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 round mistletoe bush can live for 30–50 years.
Caution: Mistletoe berries are poisonous — especially for children and pets. When hanging it up, make sure no berries fall onto the floor. If swallowed: contact poison control.
Mistletoe décor
- Classic: Tie a sprig of mistletoe with a red ribbon and hang it above the door. Simple — and effective.
- In a wreath: Work mistletoe into the Advent wreath or door wreath — together with fir and red berries.
- Table décor: Individual mistletoe sprigs as table decoration — in small vases or on the plate as napkin décor.
- Gift topper: A small sprig of mistletoe on a Christmas present — romantic and original.
- Vase life: Fresh mistletoe lasts for weeks — it dries slowly, but stays decorative.
Where can you get mistletoe? From your florist (from November/December), at Christmas markets, or — for the adventurous — out in nature. In Austria, mistletoe grows on many fruit trees. But take care: cutting it without the landowner’s permission is not allowed.
The tradition surrounding mistletoe has a long history — especially at Christmas, it’s simply part of the season.
The tradition of the mistletoe sprig goes back centuries — especially at Christmas, it’s simply part of the season.
Christmas greenery at MO BLUMEN Vienna
Mistletoe sprigs, 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 up 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 until it dries out.
Yes — the white berries contain viscotoxins and lectins, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and circulation problems if swallowed. Even a few berries can be dangerous for small children. 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 lucky charms are certainly common in Austria too — even without the obligation to kiss.
The meaning of mistletoe goes far back in history. In Norse mythology, mistletoe was sacred to the goddess of love Frigg, which is how the tradition of the kiss under the mistletoe began. The plant is one of the so-called semi-parasites, as it grows on trees and lets its roots wind into the bark. Mistletoe’s white, sticky berries were once believed to protect against evil spirits. Mistletoe also became famous through Asterix and Obelix, where the druid Getafix gathers it for his magic potion. By the way, mistletoe berries are poisonous to humans and should not be eaten.
Discover more: Christmas flowers Vienna · Flowers in winter · Order winter flower bouquets