Many Holly trees are evergreen, with their wonderful glossy leaves providing interest all year round. We offer some Holly varieties with variegated leaves in shades of green, yellow and cream. Small flowers and bright red berries can adorn the trees for further interest. Holly trees are so more than just trees associated with Christmas decorations!
Berries, often red in winter, contrast well against the foliage. This is one reason they are widely used in Christmas wreaths and other festive decorations. The berries are also popular with birds who feast on them, as well as taking shelter among the leaves.
Ilex is a genus of around 500 hardy trees and bushes that can cope with exposed situations and pollution. Whilst the genus contains a mix of evergreen and deciduous plants, Holly is generally associated with evergreen trees and all the varieties we offer are evergreen. They can come as free-standing trees, weeping trees and shrubs. We offer a choice of ornamental Ilex varieties, including those with pretty variegated leaves.
Holly trees were historically thought to offer protection from a number of evil forms. Druids wore holly in their hair to protect themselves from evil spirits, whilst others planted them in hedges in the belief it created a barrier for witches and others thought holly protected them from lightning.
In Christianity, Holly is strongly associated with Christmas and not just for it’s decorative purposes. It is a reminder of Christ, with the spiky leaves of Common Holly resembling the Crown of Thorns Jesus had to bear on the cross and the red berries resemble the blood that was shed.
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