Holly

Holly is an evergreen tree of the genus Ilex within the Aquifoliaceae family, reaching up to 13 meters in height. Native to the subtropical regions, it is widely distributed across China. Known for its evergreen foliage throughout the year and its tolerance to cold, the holly does not shed its leaves in winter, hence its name. It bears small red or black berries and is robust in life, often used for urban greening and courtyard landscaping. It thrives in evergreen broad-leaved forests and along forest edges at altitudes of 500 to 1000 meters.

Evergreen tree with an ovoid crown, smooth grayish-brown bark, and light green branches. Opposite leaves are oblong, thin, with sparse shallow serrations along the edge, deep green and glossy on the surface. Solitary flowers, with separate male and female plants, arranged in corymbs at the branch tips and axils, are pale purple-red and fragrant.椭圆形核果, ripe in deep red, remaining on the tree through winter. Commonly used in gardens for ornamental purposes in China, the wood is sturdy and used for fine craft materials, suitable for making toys, carvings, tool handles, brush backs, and combs. The bark and seeds are also used in traditional medicine.