english holly treegift

holly (Ilex aquifolium)

Our native Holly is the most familiar of evergreens. Its scarlet berries and dark green, shiny, prickly leaves are associated with Christmas. It has been cultivated since ancient times. It grows slowly to form a small conical tree (15m) making it suitable for enclosed areas. Its dense foliage makes excellent wildlife shelter. Despite its prickles holly makes good winter fodder for farm animals. Single trees are often defended by a pair of mistle thrushes, partly for the long lasting food supply as holly berries survive even the hardest of winters. The wood is used for inlay work and carving as chess pieces for example. Holly was said to ward off witches, poison, goblins and lightening. As the home of fairies it was unlucky to cut down a Holly tree. Hardy in all but waterlogged positions. Represents T (Tinne) in the tree alphabet.

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