The holly bush can often look like a tree and grow to a height of more than 7 meters. Usually it is a shrub which in winter stands out in contrast with its glossy, green leaves against the dead, brown foliage all around it. Holly usually grows in oak and chestnut woods. In winter the plant has bright red barrier and is widely used in Christmas decorations.

The leaves of holly are intended to keep animals away. The leaves on the lower branches of the plant are very prickly as this is the part most likely to be attacked by hungry animals. The leaves nearer the top of the plant are not so prickly because they are out of the reach of leaf-eating animals.