Not many know that the mistletoe is a semi parasitic plant which secures itself onto trees and shrubs and thrives off its host. Mistletoe has a prominent place in Norse mythology which is believed to be the origin of the popular Western custom of kissing under the mistletoe.

Mistletoe is a popular flower used for Christmas decoration and in ancient times this flower is believed to have some magical properties when grown on an oak tree. These days, some German herbalists use the leaves to treat cancer as well as circulatory and respiratory problems.

About 1300 species of mistletoe currently exist and the most famous ones are the European and the Eastern Mistletoe. The European mistletoe is common in Great Britain and across Europe while the Eastern mistletoe is found in eastern part of North America. Apart from this, mistletoe is also found in Australia.

Mistletoe are small, evergreen shrubs which belong to the Loranthaceae family and its flowers come in a variety of shapes and colours. While some flowers grow erect, others droop. The colour also varies with each species and it is found in shades of grey-white, red, rusty brown, grey-red to even green and yellow. The flowers may appear solitary or in clusters at the end of the stem.