Introduction

Ilex aquifolium is 1 of 400 holly species, and is one of a collection of species and hybrids known as English hollies.Its dark green leaves and red berries make it a popular house decoration winter, and for centuries it has been used to decorate houses and churches at Christmas.Holly has limited commercial use, although the dense, spiny foliage makes it an effective hedging plant.The wood is hard and creamy white and has been used for:

• veneers
• musical instruments
• walking sticks
• butter pats
• a substitute for mahogany (stained black)

Holly berries are avidly eaten by birds, particularly members of the thrush family, but are mildly poisonous to humans, causing vomiting.