le (COULIJD IDS 
From All Over the World 
Perhaps the most fascinating phase of holly culture conducted 
in recent years at the Brownell Farms has been the acquisition of 
numerous other species of holly in addition to Aquifolium and its 
many varieties. By importation from European nurseries and through 
purchase and barter, and by generous gifts from American nursery- 
men and holly specialists, we have accumulated what is undoubtedly 
one of the most complete collections of both rare and common 
hollies in existence. 
We have chosen to name our arboretum devoted exclusively to 
displaying the hollies an Ilexetum, a collection of Hex or the hollies 
of the world. Over the years pictures have been painted at the 
Brownell Farms, not with oils nor with textiles or ceramics, but with 
sweeping acres of green lawns studded with random spaced plantings 
of the choicest of specimen hollies. 
A large section sloping to the southwest provides a dramatic 
stage setting for the English Hollies garbed in their leaves of glossy 
green, silver and gold. As Christmas approaches the regal jewels 
are brought forth and the ladies of the court decorate themselves with 
gleaming berries set like rubies against an emerald background. 
A gently rolling area marked with an occasional oak has been 
planted to native North American species, while the sides of a grassy 
valley have been embroidered with the dwarf Crenatas and other 
curious hollies from the Orient. A space is reserved for South 
American species said to be the most numerous of all. Already the 
Ilexetum is proving to be a center of attraction for Garden Clubs, 
and a mecca for visitors who are making a pilgrimage to view and 
learn of the hollies of the world. Those with whom we have been 
privileged to share our hollies are finding that they grow not merely 
in the soil but in the hearts and affections of their owners as well. 
Fortunately for today’s holly enthusiasts England’s nineteenth 
century gardeners were possessed not only with fabulously green 
thumbs, but with an intense and understanding love for their native 
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