Holly, Ivy and Mistletoe
Decorating our homes with greenery is a great way to celebrate the Christmas season and winter solstice. Wreaths of fir and cedar boughs adorn front doors, and sprigs of holly, ivy and mistletoe create a festive atmosphere. It is interesting to learn more about these traditional plants, which represent the holidays.
English Holly
English holly (Ilex aquifolium) has shiny green, prickly leaves and clusters of bright red berries. Native to Europe, it was introduced to North America as a garden ornamental.
Holly grows as a shrub or small tree, and reaches a maximum height of 17 metres. Plants are either male or female, and the female produces the scarlet berries. Holly bark is smooth and grey, and the even-grained wood is white and hard. Continue reading »