Advent Fact

The term Mistletoe is believed to derive from the old Anglo-Saxon words Mistal and Tan, which roughly translates as 'dung twig'; it's scientific name, however, 'Phoradendron' means 'Thief of the Tree'.

Although not strictly classified as a parasitical plant it does actually come very close to being one. Its seeds are very sticky and attach themselves to the fur and beaks of animals in order to travel great distances. Once they have fallen near a host tree, they sink their roots into the ground and steal all of the nutrients for itself.