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| Interesting tidbits:
The holly is an evergreen tree. It is native to North America, Britain, Europe, and the Caucasus and as far east as Iran and south to North Africa. It likes humidity and therefore grows well only near bodies of water. Its stately form can reach more than ten metres, with wonderful glossy green leaves and red berries through the winter.Some American types have larger leaves and no prickles. The holly’s name is derived from the Latin ilex, which in classical times meant “holm oak.” The holly is said to be a sacred tree for the Druids because of its red berries and green foliage at winter solstice. The common holly is the badge of the Drummonds in Scotland. Straight holly sticks are prized for the stocks of light driving whips. They are also valuable as walking sticks. The wood’s principal use is as a substitute for ebony because it is hard and dense; you will often see holly wood in the handles of metal teapots. Mathematical instruments were made of holly, as were the blocks used for printing calico. Holly wood has been substituted for boxwood as a base for woodcut printing, although it is inferior. Rabbit breeders place holly sticks in their hutches for the rabbits to gnaw. It acts as a tonic and helps restore their appetite. In the past, young holly stems were dried and bruised and given to cows. Farmers found it to be wholesome fodder, producing good milk and butter. Deer and birds will eat holly berries, but they are poisonous to humans. Holly Christmas decorations are said to derive from the custom observed by the Romans of sending boughs to their friends at the festival of Saturnalia, a winter festival similar to Christmas. The origin has also been traced to the Druids, who decorated their huts with holly during winter to attract sylvan spirits to shelter from the cold. They hoped the spirits would remain there until warmer temperatures renewed the foliage of their own abodes. An old legend declares that the holly sprang up under the footsteps of Christ when he trod the Earth, and its thorny leaves and scarlet berries, like drops of blood, have been thought symbolic of the Saviour’s suffering. For this reason the tree is sometimes called “Christ’s thorn.” Perhaps these legends led to the tree being named “the holy tree” by writers in the past. |
| Ilex species, Aquifoliaceae
Holly Plant essence guidance for the soul: Holly defines areas in life that need to be healed. It is very specific. This helps in finding your own truth and building a framework for you to work with. |