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)

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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.

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