Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)

Euphorbia, named after the Greek physician Euphorbus, is a diverse genus of plants renowned for their striking features and toxic, milky sap. Among this genus, Euphorbia pulcherrima, whose name means "the most beautiful", stands out with its vibrant bracts, capturing attention every holiday season.

Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

The Norway spruce, a fast-growing conifer, soars up to 40 meters with a triangular form and evergreen, diamond-shaped needles. Its bark matures from smooth, copper-grey to fissured purple-brown. Native to Europe’s mountainous regions, this spruce provides a habitat for species like tortrix moth larvae and is valued as both a timber and Christmas tree source.

Holly (Ilex aquifolium)

The classic Christmas evergreen, features glossy, spiny leaves that deter grazers. Female trees bear red berries lasting through winter, adorning wreaths and feeding birds like mistle thrushes. Thriving in shaded woodlands, holly shelters wildlife such as hedgehogs and supports holly blue caterpillars and pollinating insects.

Silver Ragwort (Jacobaea maritima)

Silver ragwort, or "dusty miller," is a tough Mediterranean subshrub with silvery, woolly, lobed leaves. It thrives in sunny, well-drained soils and is often pruned to highlight its frosty foliage, which endures through winter, perfect for adding shimmer to Christmas decor.

Japanese Skimmia (Skimmia japonica)

Japanese skimmia, a shade-loving evergreen shrub, delights with fragrant white spring flowers and vibrant red winter berries on female plants. Native to East Asia, this frost-hardy shrub is a favorite for holiday gardens and winter wildlife looking for winter snacks.