The bringing in of evergreen branches to decorate homes and barns is a custom which goes back to pre-Christian times. The holly, with its red berries and sharp spines, was seen as a powerful fertility symbol and a charm against witches, goblins and the devil. Some writers say that it is unlucky to plant a holly near a house whereas others say that hollies were deliberately planted under the belief that they were good lightening conductors and would prevent the lightening striking the house. These contradictions could be a result of different practices in different parts of the UK. It is reputedly unlucky to cut down a holly tree and some believe this is why hollies may have remained when parts of woods were felled or hedges grubbed up. Other evidence suggests this may have been because the evergreen leaves provide sightlines and guides to those walking in the countryside or ploughing fields. In the past, boiled young holly leaves were used as a cure for colds, bronchitis and rheumatism and although they are poisonous, berries were recommended as a laxative!
From the Language of Flowers 1834
Holly: Foresight
The providence of Nature demonstrates itself in a singular manner in this handsome plant. Its berries serve to feed the little birds which never quit our climate; and it furnishes them with an hospitable shelter during the rigours of the months of frost. Would it not seem as if Nature, by a tender forethought, had taken pains to preserve the verdure of this fne tree all the winter, and to arm it with thorns in order that it might furnish both food and defence to the innocent creatures that resort to it for refuge? It is a friend which her all powerful hand preserves against the period when friends fly and all other reliance fails.
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