Ilex aquifolium
Houx
Holly
Additional information
| Plant family | |
|---|---|
| Area | Provence Verte |
| Flower colour | white |
| Flower size | small |
| Flowering months | May, June |
| Leaf type | Elliptic |
| Height | 10 m |
Description
Holly branches, with bright red berries, have a long association in northern Europe with Christmas. Until the 17th century Holly was known as ‘Holy Tree’. Ilex was the ancient name for Quercus ilex (Holm Oak), while aquifolium means point (aqui) and leaf (folium), referring to the shape of the leaves.
It grows in deep shade on a wide range of well drained soil types, including light and heavy soils.
Flowers
Male and female flowers on separate trees. Inconspicuous flowers with 4 white petals.
Leaves
Elliptic oval leaf. Oval, wavy, pointed, spiky margins, 9 cm long.
Fruits Seeds
Drupe: with outer fleshy parts, surrounding a pit with a seed inside, 9 mm.
Medical
Leaves: to treat fevers, bronchitis and rheumatism. Berries are a purgative.
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