Feature Flower Friday: Mistletoe

Hi there all of you Garden of Eden Flower Shop (and chocolates and gifts) fans! We’d like to welcome you all to our new Feature Flower Friday! Each week, we will be feature a different type of flower, the meaning behind them and the reasons you would give or present them to someone else. Since it is finally December, we plan to do something a little special for Feature Flower Friday due to the holidays.  Each week, we’re going to focus on a different traditional Christmas flower, and explain some of the meaning and symbolism behind it. This week, join us as we discuss mistletoe! From the times of long ago to the times of today, mistletoe has been a reoccurring theme in many homes when the holidays roll around.   However, did you know that the association of this plant with the holidays started in ancient Rome?  Used as a way to bestow fertility and happiness, mistletoe was employed in abundance for the Roman holiday of Saturnalia, which took place in late December of the Julian calendar.  When Christianity spread west, mistletoe simply integrated into the Christmas tradition. Now, besides the fact that mistletoe represents fertility, festivity, and good will, what else does it entail?  And how did that whole "kissing underneath the mistletoe" thing even start? Well, the kissing tradition emerged in the Scandinavian countries in Europe, where they considered the plant to be a sign of peace (especially during December).  They believed that those who had differences could resolve them underneath the mistletoe, whether it be with a handshake or a kiss.  Due to this, many people used this opportunity to start a "fight" with a potential partner so it could be resolved with a kiss.  From there, Victorian England took this concept a step further, renamed mistletoe "the kissing ball", and really solidified our view on this festive holiday plant. Whether you're looking to deck the halls with some more green or to give your holiday party an interesting prop, we have you covered for all of your mistletoe needs.  Simply stop on in, and see what different types of holiday greenery we have for you! Have a great weekend, Garden of Eden fans!