For much of the year, the holly (Ilex aquifolium) is content to grow in relative anonymity, often as an understory species beneath the shade of oak or beech – a silent player in an ensemble cast.
But as the leaves of the deciduous trees fall, so the evergreen holly takes centre stage.
Learn more about the holly tree, including what its leaves look like, when its berries appear and its connection to ivy.
What does holly look like?
Leaves
The leaves are leathery but with a soft vinyl shine. The edges and tip tighten into sharp spines that become less pronounced as the tree ages.
Berries
In December, the berries are most conspicuous. Tightly bunched red pearls that contrast with the deep green of the leaves – colours long associated with the season.
What's the symbolism behind holly?
The prominence of the holly in winter has been noted for thousands of years. The ancient Romans believed the holly to be sacred to the god Saturn, and homes would be decorated with sprigs during Saturnalia, the December festival held in his honour.
Across Northern Europe, holly became a prominent symbol for pagans celebrating the winter solstice. Many believed the tree to offer protection from the devil, while others felt it represented male fertility, with the ivy a female counterpart. The relationship between the holly and the ivy is also represented in Christianity and both are familiar parts of Christmas imagery, even giving title to an oft-sung carol.
Is holly edible?
The berries and leaves are poisonous to humans, but provide vital sustenance in the forest when other foods are scarce. Deer will feed on the less prickly leaves, while thrushes and waxwings will seek out the red pith of the fruit. Meanwhile, in the dry leaf litter beneath the foliage, you might find hedgehogs and dormice, curled and sleeping soundly until the world warms once more in early spring.
How to grow holly
You can plant bushes in the ground in winter but holly can also be grown from seed. Collect seeds from the berries in December, January or February, then rinse all the berry pulp away. Plant the seeds in compost, water and leave to germinate outdoors. You can also take hardwood cuttings from them in the winter.
