The beauty of the season is marked in Europe by the growth of wild mistletoe, holly and ivy everywhere. I have been amazed by how mistletoe grows, and even more amazed by how lovely it really is. In America, when you buy mistletoe, you purchase this tiny sprig of leaves with plastic white berries attached. I have appreciated the true beauty of the plant in its natural surroundings - and as a decoration in the front foyer of Fiarfield High. If I thought I could get through customs with some, I would attempt to bring it home.
The growth of this plant is rampant in the area of Hereford, as there are a lot of apple trees and orchards, and mistletoe likes these trees. Mistletoe, while beautiful and poisonous at the same time, is a parasite spread by birds from tree to tree. It grows in circular balls and hangs from the trees.
Additionally, holly grows just as wild, with all kinds of shapes and sizes to its leaves, and is usually intertwined with ivy vines. It truly is reminiscent of the song "The Holly and the Ivy."
I have unearthed an interesting National Geographic feature story on the growth of mistletoe as it relates to global warming...relevant as the final days of the climate change summit takes place. The article explained how the growth of mistletoe can be indicative of a warmer and milder climate. In recent years, the growth of mistletoe is taking hold in higher mountain altitudes, which would lead to a conclusion that the climate is warming.
Holly and mistletoe have long been used to celebrate winter festivals in countries, such as Great Britain, where pre-Christian Druids considered both plants to be sacred.
Under Christian rule, holly's blood-red berries and spiked leaves came to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ. Mistletoe kept its association as a fertility symbol, with couples kissing under a hanging sprig.
The growth of this plant is rampant in the area of Hereford, as there are a lot of apple trees and orchards, and mistletoe likes these trees. Mistletoe, while beautiful and poisonous at the same time, is a parasite spread by birds from tree to tree. It grows in circular balls and hangs from the trees.
Additionally, holly grows just as wild, with all kinds of shapes and sizes to its leaves, and is usually intertwined with ivy vines. It truly is reminiscent of the song "The Holly and the Ivy."
I have unearthed an interesting National Geographic feature story on the growth of mistletoe as it relates to global warming...relevant as the final days of the climate change summit takes place. The article explained how the growth of mistletoe can be indicative of a warmer and milder climate. In recent years, the growth of mistletoe is taking hold in higher mountain altitudes, which would lead to a conclusion that the climate is warming.
Holly and mistletoe have long been used to celebrate winter festivals in countries, such as Great Britain, where pre-Christian Druids considered both plants to be sacred.
Under Christian rule, holly's blood-red berries and spiked leaves came to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ. Mistletoe kept its association as a fertility symbol, with couples kissing under a hanging sprig.
The Choir of King's College- The Holly & the Ivy
Merry Christmas....
Merry Christmas....
Hey Kristen looking forward to your return, things have been a little quiet while you were gone! Safe trip and Happy Holidays!
ReplyDeleteP. Bedard