Christmas Topiary - Holly

Holly is one of the symbols of Christmas. Christmas trees, wreaths and other seasonal decorations made out of greenery ornament our homes, streets and churches at Christmas. It ornaments Christmas cards, wreaths, wrapping paper and other Christmas decorations.

The word 'holly' comes from an old English word 'holen'. Holly has been a favourite winter plant for many years. Ancient Romans gave sprigs of holly as gifts. The Druids believed that good spirits lived in its branches and would take sprigs into their homes for luck and prosperity. Holly was also believed to keep evil spirits away, repelling witches, lightning and poison. The tradition in Scandinavia was for unmarried women to tie holly to their beds to avoid being turned into witches. English folk beliefs included that holly offered protection against witches and that holly bestowed good luck on men.

Early Christians considered that holly represented Moses' burning bush, with the berries representing the flames. Holly was also connected to the Crown of Thorns Christ was made to wear at his crucifixion. Legends say that the berries were originally white, turned red by Christ's blood. Pagans believed holly to be male; Christians considered holly a symbol of the Virgin Mary's love for God.