Myths and magic surrounding popular Christmas plants

We've dug up some folklore and legends that have grown around our festive favouritess

There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to Christmas plants. Picture: Alamy/PA

Holly, ivy, white-berried mistletoe and vibrant red poinsettias all serve to add festive cheer to the home, both inside and out, and are synonymous with Christmas.

And yet there is much myth and folklore regarding these plants, some dating back to pagan times, others used to ward off witches and goblins or protect people from the elements.