We have completed maintenance on DiscoverMagazine.com and action may be required on your account. Learn More

We May Kiss Under the Mistletoe, but are These Berries Poisonous?

Chances are you may have kissed under the mistletoe. But is it actually poisonous? Learn about its potential dangers, and if it is toxic to plants and pets.

By Sara Novak
Dec 12, 2023 7:00 PM
Festive couple kissing under the mistletoe
(Credit: New Africa/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Mistletoe is most well known for its role in helping holiday lovers steal a kiss, but this little bush is about much more than just smooching.

It might surprise you that mistletoe has a bit of a dark side in that it’s both parasitic and poisonous. Find out what mistletoe is, where it grows, and just how poisonous it is.

What Is Mistletoe?

(Credit: CUTWORLD/Shutterstock)

Mistletoe, a plant shrouded in ancient folklore, is more than just a holiday decoration. This perennial, evergreen plant thrives by attaching itself to host trees and extracting water and nutrients.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.