Holly

Ilex aquifolium L. Fam. Aquifoliaceae.

Characteristics: a shrub or small evergreen tree with shiny, leathery leaves undulating at the edges, prickly toothed in young plants, smooth –edged in older plants. the fruit is a red berry when mature.

Habitat: in tall but not too steep ilex, chestnut and occasionally beech thickets.

Uses and properties: considered to bring good luck. The wood is used for making small objects on a lathe.