Quercus ilex

Holly oak or holm oak is a large evergreen oak in the white oak group (Quercus) in the beech or Fagaceae family, and is native to the Mediterranean region. It was first introduced to the United Kingdom in the 16th century. Specimens can be found which are up to 700 years old and 3.0 m in diameter.

• Leaves are alternate, simple, shape is variable with the adult leaves 4–8 cm long and 1–3 cm broad, while those on the lower branches of young trees are often larger (to 10 cm long), and are toothed or somewhat spiny, possibly as protection from grazing animals. In this, the foliage resembles that of the common European holly (Ilex aquifolium).
• Late spring flowers are yellow drooping catkins and are followed in the fall with small acorns to 2.5 cm long, 3 to 5 together.