Holly Trees

Holly trees can live for 200 years. The bright red berries ripen in October and remain through winter. Its glossy green leaves and clusters of scarlet/red berries, add a flash of colour to trees without leaves cheering the hearts of weary wonderers.

The berries, though eaten by birds and animals, are poisonous to human beings and children in particular should be warned against eating them. An old Christian legend has it that the Holly first sprang up under the footsteps of Christ as he trod the earth and its thorny leaves and scarlet berries are likened to drops of blood symbolic of his suffering.

The Holly tree is a symbol of goodwill, peace, health and happiness.