The Teutonic people traditionally used holly and other evergreens in their homes to ward away bad winter weather and evil spirits.  Its bright green and red colors made it a natural symbol of rebirth and life in the winter months of Northern Europe.

One of the greatest dangers related to the Christmas tree was burning candles. They made the tree beautiful to look at, however, it was necessary to keep buckets of water just in case a fire broke out (they didn't have dripless candles in those days). The idea of electric Christmas tree lights is credited to Ralph E. Morris, an employee of the New England Telephone Co. in 1895. He got the idea from the lights which were used to light up the switchboards.

The ancient Druids believed mistletoe to be the symbol of eternal life. The Romans believed it the symbol of peace. Kissing under the mistletoe was a Roman custom also.

There was a Mexican legend about a small boy who felt badly that he had nothing to give to the Christ child except for a prayer. That night the first plant that sprang up in homage of the birth was a brilliant red and green one. Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett, the American ambassador to Mexico had an interest in botany and brought back this plant. It was named after him.