Have you heard of kissing under mistletoe at Christmas time? It is believed to attract prosperity, peace, and fertility. Abroad, white mistletoe is quite common, but in Latvia it is recorded in the Red Book, since it grows rarely. There is a mistletoe near the old road in Bernāti. Try out your luck!
White mistletoe (Viscum album) is a semi-parasitic shrub that grows on deciduous trees. In Latvia, it is observed growing on maples, apple trees, lindens, and other trees. This plant has globe shaped foliage, which you can easily notice during the period when the main plant is without leaves. White mistletoe is especially beautiful in spring when it blooms and white berries are also decorative.
Since ancient times, mistletoe has been a symbol of peace, goodwill and love, a protective charm. In ancient times healers considered white mistletoe a universal remedy. The Celts hung mistletoe at home to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck, and this tradition has been preserved in many parts of the world even today. White mistletoe is protected plant in Latvia, you cannot tear and make a wreath from this plant. But kissing under the tree with a mistletoe is definitely allowed.
