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Aquifoliaceae
English Holly Flower
Ilex aquifolium
Protection and eternal life.
- Family
- Aquifoliaceae
- Genus
- Ilex
- Native to
- Western and Southern Europe, Northwest Africa, Southwest Asia
- Bloom season
- Spring, Summer
- Type
- Evergreen tree or shrub
- Height
- 300-1500 cm
- Sunlight
- Full sun to partial shade
- Soil
- Well-drained, slightly acidic
- Water
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- 6-9
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Did you know
- Holly is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female; only females produce berries.
- A single holly tree can live for over 500 years.
- The spiny leaves are found mainly on the lower branches as a defense against browsing animals; upper leaves are often smooth.
- Holly was sacred to the Druids who believed it remained green through winter because the sun god favored it.
- The bright red berries are toxic to humans but are an important winter food source for birds.
Color meanings
0
Protection
1
Foresight
2
Domestic happiness