Happy Holly-days Card (and a botany lesson)

I can't resist a little botany lesson if I find it applicable.  But first, as always, take a minute to admire the holly Christmas card.  

These cards feature holly leaves accented with red rhinestone holly berries. A punched, white lace border and khaki brown twill tape accent the bright red card and green polka dot paper. Happy Holidays has been hand-stamped on the bottom right corner of each card. 

A set of four of these cards is currently available for sale in my Etsy shop.  

Finished card size is 4 1/4"x5 1/2"

American holly (Ilex opaca) is indigenous to the southeastern part of the United States, although native populations can be found as far north as Maine and as far west as Texas (1).  One common plant that is often mistaken for holly is Oregon grape (Mahonia sp.) which is commonly found in the western US.  Oregon grape has similar leaves and, although purple, clusters of fruit

American holly with red fruit (davesgarden.com)

Oregon grape with purple fruit (davesgarden.com)

American holly is most commonly used in Christmas and holiday decor, but also serves as a food source for white tail deer and 18 species of birds (1).

If you are interested in the history of why holly is associated with Christmastime, I found this link interesting http://www.christmasholly.net/.  I cannot verify any of the historical accuracy of the information on this site. 

References
1. http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=ILOP (10/20/11)