Wednesday 14 December 2011

Jolly holly



Call it what you like: Nova Scotia holly, Canada holly, winterberry or its 'proper name': Ilex verticillata. I can't get enough of this shrub!

This year has been a particularly good one for berry production. Next time you are driving around, keep a keen eye on ditches and other wet areas beside highways. Chances are you will spot clumps of these gorgeous, scarlet berries.

When harvesting these for decorations, leave some for our feathered friends. They love to feast on the berries and are an important winter food source for many many species of birds.