Ilex, also known as holly, has long earned its reputation as a favourite of winter floristry. It is a genus of evergreen shrubs and trees that enhance festive flower bouquets, floral arrangements, and installations with their structure, texture, and rich colour palette. Ilex leaves are firm, dark green, with distinctive spines along the edges, while the bright red berries, which appear only on female plants, shine and remain on the branches for a long time, adding a special festive charm to compositions. Compact branches easily integrate into any bouquets, wreaths, or garlands with flowers and greenery.
Interestingly, the name «holly» reflects the character of the plant. It is linked to the Old English word holegn, which also refers to the rigid, spiny nature of its leaves. Both the name and the tradition of its use convey a respectful attitude toward nature and the symbolism of the winter holiday.
Florists value ilex for its longevity: the leaves remain green, the berries stay bright and juicy, and the arrangement itself lasts for several weeks. It creates a striking contrast, serving both as a background for flowers and as an accent, thanks to its deep red-purple berries. Holly also carries profound symbolism: it is traditionally associated with Christmas, home protection, good fortune, and family warmth.
Ease of use makes ilex even more in demand: the branches are easy to incorporate into winter bouquets, wreaths, and Christmas arrangements, they hold their shape, do not break, and suit any style from classic to modern minimalism in bunches.
How Ilex Is Used at XOstudio FLOWERS
At the studio, ilex is highly valued. It is organically integrated into New Year decor: glossy green leaves, fresh juicy needles, and bright red berries combined with cones create a stunning festive aura.
In winter bouquets, ilex is used either as a dense background or as a single expressive accent. Ilex harmonizes beautifully with fiery amaryllis, highlights pure white roses and chrysanthemums, and feels perfectly at home in Christmas baskets and boxes with pine and seasonal flowers, giving interiors a festive and playful mood. In decorative table arrangements, ilex adds light, atmosphere, and even stimulates the appetite for a delicious holiday meal.
Do not deny yourself the pleasure of enjoying the magic – buy winter bouquets with ilex and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of warmth, comfort, and true celebration in your home or office.
Allow a little wordplay: «Celebrate in style – holly your holidays with XOstudio FLOWERS.»
