Holly (Ilex aquifolium)

Other names: holly, holly, Christmas holly, English holly

Holly (Ilex aquifolium) is also known as holly, holly, Christmas holly or English holly. It belongs to the holly family and is native to Europe, North Africa and western Asia. It typically reaches a height of 10-25 metres and is characterised by its glossy green, sharply toothed leaves and red berries. The plant has a long tradition in both Christian symbolism and folk medicine. Its botanical name, Ilex aquifolium, is derived from the Latin word for holly and aquifolium, meaning spiky.

Holly finds use in many products. It is a traditional symbol of Christmas and is often used as an ornament on Christmas wreaths or as part of decorative arrangements. In gastronomy, its berries are used to flavour alcohol, for example some types of gin or beer. The biomass of holly is also used as a source of energy. In homeopathy and herbalism, various preparations are made from holly, especially for fever and flu, as holly is said to have antipyretic and analgesic properties. It is important to note that although holly berries are harmless to birds, they are poisonous to humans. The leaves are therefore mainly used in the products.