Day 70: The use of both mistletoe and holly as Yuletide decorations dates back to the time of the Druids. Both plants' evergreen nature led them to be considered sacred, keepers of the force of Life. Mistletoe was traditionally harvested only with a sickle made of gold, and was not allowed to touch the ground in its transit from tree to home. There, it was hung above a doorway as a guard against illness and to ensure good fortune in the coming year.
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant, and contrary to popular belief, grows not only on oak but on several different species of trees including Douglas Fir and Western Hemlock. The berries are poisonous. However, the mistletoe shown in this image is a perpetual variety, created in Fimo modelling clay.
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