Holly, December flower

The flowers associated with December is the holly, including the blossoms, thorny leaves and the berries. Another name for the holly flower is Ilex aquifolium. The flowering period is during Spring when branches of holly twigs explode in tiny green and white flowers. They can resemble clumps of snow at a distance, and then by late in the year the red holly berries appear looking like rubies. They are mostly used as decorations during Yule and Christmas. 

Holly is evergreen. They can be found in many parts of the world, growing in different climates. They're mostly successful in temperate and subtropical places. 

While these plants look very pretty, they're not safe to eat. Consuming them will cause sickness and can be fatal for pets. The leaves and berries are poisonous. Certain exotic species of holly, the Yerba mate and the Ilex guayusa, Kuding and Yaupon, have had their leaves used to make tea. Berries have been distilled to make brandy, the eau de vie.

In ancient times, holly was believed to ward off evil spirits. Some say the holly protects from evil and people placed it around their homes. Also holly indoors was believed to protect fairies and make them kind to householders. Druids believed that holly symbolise immortality because it stayed green throughout the year, and holly was associated with eternal life. In Celtic myth, the Holly King appeared during half of the year from Midsummer to Midwinter. Christians believe that holly symbolises Christ. Witches believe holly is the perfect plant to make magic wands. Unmarried women placed nine holly leaves under their pillows to dream about their future husbands. Holly is associated with thunder gods, including Thor and Taranis, as the leaves are small lightning conductors, which is why people also kept holly. 

Storm Valkyrie