There are many species of holly: almost 300 varieties! Unfortunately, in France, only one is found. Yet it’s a tree that can live for a long time, up to 300 years.
On the other hand, its flowering is very short but intense. This makes it a rare crop.
Mate, which comes from the holly plant, can be used to replace tea.
Harvesting holly honey:
Holly flowers early, between May and June, depending on the country. In Spain, blossoming starts a little earlier. Its intense bloom lasts only ten days or so between April and May. This makes it a rare honey, obtained in exceptional years. Harvesting takes place in late April, mid-May.
The taste and consistency of holly honey:
Holly honey is characterized by its coppery color and powerful aroma. Liquid in texture, it has a slightly astringent taste. In some years, it’s even bitter!
Properties of holly honey :
It is rich in fructose. As a result, it stays liquid longer (rather like acacia honey). Holly honey is recognized as an excellent intestinal regulator. It also has laxative and diuretic properties, like borage honey. In South America, it is used as an energizing honey.
Did you know?
Only female trees produce red balls in winter.
As for the male trees, they are the delight of the bees that gather their flowers to give us this atypical honey.
