Heroes Not Zombies

Around here there are a lot of trees which look like this. Do you know what those clumps are? Let’s look closer.

Maybe you recognise it now? It’s mistletoe. Let’s take a closer look.

Isn’t it amazing? Every one of these clumps is like a whole colony. Mistletoe is a parasite, although at some stages in its lifecycle it does contribute some photosynthesis to the tree. It’s used in health care and has a long history of symbolic and mythological use amongst the Celts, Druids and even Romans. But of course you probably know it best from its use at Christmas where it’s hung up in a house and people kiss under it – however, the origins of this Christmas kissing under the mistletoe seem obscure!

Let’s take one step closer for a final look.

There are more forms of Life and more ways of living than we will ever know.

I like mystery and I love to explore the stories, myths and traditions associated with the plants I encounter.