If you’re putting up the Christmas decorations this weekend give a thought to some of the plants that regularly adorn our houses at this time of year – here is some folklore and history surrounding our favourite Christmas plants:

Christmas Tree The most iconic symbol of the season. Evergreen trees, such as fir, pine and spruce, are used for their ability to retain their green needles throughout the winter. This symbolizes eternal life and the hope of spring's return. The custom of bringing a tree indoors and decorating it is believed to have originated in Germany in the 16th century and was famously imported to Britain by Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert.
Mistletoe: Romantic mistletoe is actually a parasitic plant that grows on trees. Hanging mistletoe in the home is a tradition that dates back to the ancient Druids, but it was during the Middle Ages that kissing under the mistletoe became associated with good fortune and love.
Holly: In ancient Rome, holly was associated with Saturn, the god of agriculture, and was used to celebrate the winter solstice, in pagan traditions, holly was associated with protection and good luck. Perhaps more widely recognised is it’s Christian association with the crown of thorns and the red berries as drops of blood.
Ivy: A climbing evergreen, Ivy represents enduring life and strength. In ancient Greece, it was associated with the god Dionysus, while in Celtic cultures, it was believed to possess magical properties. During the Middle Ages, ivy was used to decorate churches and homes during Christmas, symbolizing everlasting life.

Poinsettia: Native to Mexico, the poinsettia has become a popular Christmas plant and is in fact a Euphorbia. Its red and green foliage fits the colour scheme of Christmas, and it is believed to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. In Mexico, it is known as the "Flower of the Holy Night" (Flores de Nochebuena).