IIex aquifolium
FAMILY NAME Aquifoliaceae
CHARACTERISTICS Leathery, glossy green, oval leaves, often with sharp spines but sometimes without, approximately 6.5cm (2½in) long
HABITAT Lowlands to mountains; moist, fairly rich soils; woodland and gardens
DISTRIBUTION Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
FLOWERS AND FRUIT Clusters of creamy-white flowers on stems followed by shiny red berries around 1cm (⅜in) diameter
It’s easy to spot Holly trees during winter when the fruit is present; being evergreen, the leaves remain a luscious, dark green hue all year round. According to folklore, Holly was known for its protective properties. Associated with Thor, the Norse god of thunder and lightning, holly was believed to prevent people from being struck by lightning if they sheltered beneath a tree. Holly berries are an important food source for many birds and small mammals in winter.