Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that grows in trees and shrubs.  Mistletoe basically means “dung-on-a-twig.”

Several hundred years ago, people used to think that it was formed from bird poop.   Now we know that’s not true because otherwise there would be mistletoe everywhere that bird poop lands.   It still needs the right kind of host to start growing. The seeds are spread in the fruit which is eaten by birds.

When you think about it, it’s kind of weird that people use it during the holidays to kiss under.

Source:  Bellarmine University