Is there really a four-leaved clover?

A particular feature of the clovers is their three-lobed (or trifoliate) leaves. The lcky 'four-leaved clover' can be found, but i is an abnormal rarity. Clovers are members of thepea family. There are around 250 kinds of true clovers, including the red, white, strawberry and crimson species, and they are most common near the clover has been used for centuries as a rotation crop. Today, it is used extensively as an animal food and soil-improving crop throughout Europe and northern and central North America.

More Facts: Fact File

Why is holly associated with Christmas?

        Holly has been used traditionally in houses and churches at Christmastime for decorative purposes. It was originally called the holy tree. The word holly may have come from this name. Holly is the common name for a group of shrubs and small trees. The two best-known hollies, the American holly and the English holly, are evergreens. These two hollies have glossy green leaves and red berries and are used to make attractive Christmas wreaths. Holly wood is very hard and has a close grain It used for making musical instruments, furniture and in interior decoration. The inner bark yields the sticky material called birdlime. The leaves of a South American species are used to make a tea-like drink called mate.

More Facts: Fact File

What is the other name for the Iris?

Fleur-de-lis is a name somtimes used for the iris. It is French for flower of the lily. Fleur-de-lis is also the name of design that represents the white iris. It appeared as an emblem on the sceptre of Egyptian rulers in 1500 BCE, and was carved on the brow of the Sphinx. It also became the emblem of the kings of France in the 12th century.

The name 'iris' comes from the Greek word for rainbow. The unusual shape of the iris makes it unusual shape of the iris makes it easy to recognize. An iris has three sets of three petal-like parts. The lower set, called the falls, flares out and hangs down. The upper parts, known as standards, curve up into a dome. Three curved style branches cover the stamens in the middle.

More Facts: Fact File