Holm oaks or holly oaks (Quercus ilex) are slowly growing evergreen trees and shrubs that grow in the Mediterranean macchia. Their wood is referred to as rock hard, extremely durable and shows really terrific grain patterns. This unique wood shows a great variety of different patterns, depending on sawing direction, it takes a mirror polish. Some really tiny holes may occur from typical Portugese insects. A rare and hard to find beautiful wood for stunning knife handles!
