3-6 Aquifoliaceae, holly family

Marian C. Munro; Ruth E. Newell; Nicholas M. Hill

Authors

Marian C. Munro Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax, NS
Ruth E. Newell E. C. Smith Herbarium, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Nicholas M. Hill Fernhill Institute, Kentville, Nova Scotia; Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Keywords:

Magnoliophyte, dicot, holly family, Ilex, holly, inkberry, winterberry

Abstract

All woody plants, the hollies and relatives have simple alternate leaves, which are sometimes toothed. Flowers are regular and they may be perfect or unisexual. Usually axillary, they may be 4–8-merous. Petals are connate at the base or separate. The stamens alternate with the petals and may be attached to the base of the corolla. Fruits are drupes, one stone per carpel, although some may abort. Of the three genera, only one reaches Nova Scotia. Fruit is not edible and may cause illness. Photographs by Sean Blaney, Martin Thomas, David Mazerolle and Ross Hall.

Author Biographies

Marian C. Munro, Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax, NS

Curator of Botany (NSPM)

Ruth E. Newell, E. C. Smith Herbarium, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia

Curator of the E. C. Smith Herbarium (ACAD)

Nicholas M. Hill, Fernhill Institute, Kentville, Nova Scotia; Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Director; Adjunct Professor