Holly is any of several trees and shrubs that belong to the holly family and have glossy, evergreen, or deciduous leaves; small, inconspicuous flowers; and, bright-red berries. They frequently are used as Christmas decorations. Hollies bear fruit best in colder climates and can withstand most freezing temperatures. Holly trees can live for 200 years. Their leaves are stiff and deep, dull-green, with spines on the margin. The bright-red berries ripen in October and remain throughout the winter.