Mistletoe is more than a festive decoration that helps with holiday matchmaking; it has a rich history and distinctive growing habits. Known for its evergreen leaves and white berries, this stunning ...

Mistletoes evolved the ability to grow not on the roots of trees, but instead on their branches. Frankie Angel / Alamy Baldur, grandson of the Norse god Thor, woke up one morning certain that each and ...

For many people, mistletoe is a pest, while for others, it is a symbol of Christmas cheer. The origin of mistletoe as a Yuletide symbol came from the Norse and the Druids. Both had traditions that ...

Stealing a smooch under the mistletoe is a time-honored holiday tradition — but the word itself has an origin that invokes the exact opposite of romance. As part of NPR's "Word of the Week" series, we ...

While waiting under the mistletoe for that kiss, you might look up and think about the other important functions of mistletoe. Ira Flatow, host of Science Friday, discusses mistletoe's non-holiday ...

It’s often thought that mistletoe spells bad news for its host tree, but new research suggests otherwise – just in time for Christmas. If mistletoe’s status as a nutrient-stealing freeloader has been ...

This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today. Stealing a smooch under the mistletoe ...

The etymology of mistletoe — a plant with small, oval evergreen leaves and waxy white berries — may strike some as repugnant. From bird droppings to holiday kisses: How we ended up under the mistletoe ...