Author Linda Allen discusses 12 top tales of plants associated with Christmas. Whether used as delightful decorations, devotional devices or delectable desserts, plants have been an important part of holiday celebrations since ancient times.The Christmas tree is the plant modern Christians most closely associate with the Christmas holiday. One legend claims the fir was the original tree of life in the Garden of Eden. The tree was punished for complicity in Eve?s sin when its leaves shriveled to needles and its fruit changed to cones. Another legend claims the tree regained its beauty on the night of the nativity and became the first Christmas tree. Yet another legend claims the fir tree provided shelter for the holy family during their flight into Egypt. Joseph, Mary, and the Christ Child hid in the tree while Herod?s army searched for them. The following morning, Jesus blessed the tree with the gift of remaining green throughout the seasons. Missionaries sometimes taught that the triangle shape of the Christmas tree symbolized the holy trinity.Although not often used as decorations, frankincense and myrrh can also be considered Christmas trees. Frankincense is a resin obtained from the sap of a tree found in Arabia and Africa. Myrrh, a fragrant, bitter tasting gum often used to prepare luxury perfume, is also made from trees found in northern Arabia and eastern Africa.The Christmas rose is actually related to the buttercup. Legends say the stars fell from the heavens and became the golden flowers on the night of Christ?s birth. In the middle Ages, people set up ?Paradise Trees? to symbolize the fall of Man on Christmas Eve. The trees were decorated with apples and small figurines. Cinnamon wafers were attached to symbolize forgiveness of sins. Paper roses were added to represent the Virgin Mary.Mistletoe, a parasitic vine, was sacred to Druids and certain African tribes. It was believed to have healing and prophetic powers. Some ancient cultures believed it symbolized cooperation and interdependence because the vine could not survive on its own but flourished in many different environments. Ancient Norsemen believed the oak tree symbolized strength, power, and immortality. It was often used as a Yule log. Wreaths have been used for centuries to signify the unending cycle of life. Historically, the wreath also symbolized victory and honor.Peppermint is considered good for an upset stomach. Legend claims that rubbing it on the table will create an appetite in whoever sits there. It is also thought to repel mice and other rodents. Cinnamon trees can grow to over 50 feet tall. They are used as medicine, perfume, incense and of course, spices.The cranberry is one of only 3 fruits native to the United States. The other 2 are the Concord grape and the blueberry. Native Americans distributed cranberries at tribal feasts as a symbol of peace and the Great Spirit?s abiding love and compassion.
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