What’s More Romantic — Jade or Mistletoe?

What’s More Romantic — Jade or Mistletoe?

Are you a fan of mistletoe? Really?

Well prepare to be surprised! Because this holiday plant isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.

The Twisted History of Mistletoe

Ancient cultures regarded mistletoe as a symbol of male fertility (a little much for a holiday kiss). Druids used it in the Ritual of Oak and Mistletoe. In the ritual, they climbed sacred oak trees to gather the shrub, sacrificed two white bulls, and used the mistletoe to craft an elixir that would cure infertility and stomach illness. Because nothing says romance like a bunch of bearded men in robes climbing trees and sacrificing farm animals to create some sort of Pepto Bismol/ Viagra hybrid!

Some scholars even believe that mistletoe was originally associated with human sacrifice, and only became associated with the white bull after the Romans banned human sacrifices. Is there still time to move this holiday tradition to Halloween or Día de Muertos?

Anyway, in Roman times mistletoe became associated with peace, love, and understanding (that’s more like it). And in medieval times people would hang it over their doorways as protection against witches and demons (again, a great candidate for Halloween).

The custom of kissing beneath the mistletoe became popular among the English working class in the 17th century. One variation of the tradition states that with each kiss one berry was plucked from the mistletoe. The kissing would stop after all the berries had been plucked. People have reportedly experienced poisoning from trying to eat these berries, which are toxic to humans!

So far mistletoe doesn’t have a great track record. And it’s not exactly the prettiest plant to begin with! Do you still think this toxic plant is the best representation of holiday cheer?

What we propose is this: let’s find something merrier than mistletoe! A beautiful plant that will compliment your holiday decor, and that you won’t mind leaving up all year long. Something without mistletoe’s spotty history and questionable reputation.

Introducing Holiday Jade

Nothing says mid-winter romance like South African Jade!

Historically Jade is treated as a symbol of prosperity and friendship. In Feng Shui, Jade is a symbol of good luck. It gives off healthy and beneficial chi, or positive energy. A plant placed by the door of a home or office invites prosperity and good fortune. Placing it in the Eastern quadrant of a home brings family harmony and health. Just what you need to maintain peace among the in-laws and start the new year off right!

Cascade Greenery offers our own take on this natural wonder! Our design team has crafted a beautiful bouquet of jade inspired wall art, that won’t wilt or turn brown with age. Because artificial jade doesn’t shed or require maintenance, you’ll have more time for merrymaking with your guests!

Better yet, our wall art is hypoallergenic, flame resistant, and doesn’t attract insects. Jade’s refined palette of gorgeous greens adds depth and character to any space. Its delicately placed petals create a profound sense of realism, while its rich textures capture the genuine appearance of real jade.