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HOLLY

FOLK NAMES: Aquifolius, Bat’s Wings, Christ’s Thorn, Holy Tree, Holm Chaste, Hulm, Hulver Bush, Tinne



POWERS ASSOCIATED: Protection, Anti-Lightning, Luck, Dream Magic

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-Protects against lightning, poison, and evil spirits.

-Planted around a home, it protects the inhabitants from mischievous sorcerers.

-When thrown at wild animals, it makes them lie down and leave the thrower alone.

-Distilled or infused holly water is sprinkled on infants to protect them.

-Men carry holly, because holly is a male plant, the corresponding plant for women, is Ivy.

-Holly is hung around to home during Yule for good luck.

-Legend says that if one collects nine smooth (not spiky) holly leaves in silence at midnight on Friday, and wraps them up in a white cloth, using nine knots to tie the ends together, and places the bundle under one’s pillow, their dreams will come true.

-When carried, leaves and berries of holly are said to heighten masculinity.