What type of foliage is characterized by shiny green leaves, and is commonly used in floral arrangements during winter?

Holly is distinguished by its glossy, dark green leaves that often feature spiny edges, making it an iconic choice for winter floral arrangements. Its vibrant red berries add a festive touch, which is particularly popular during the holiday season. The shiny foliage of holly not only provides aesthetic appeal but also symbolizes the winter season in many cultures, making it a staple in holiday decorations and arrangements. Its resilient nature allows holly to maintain its visual appeal even in colder months, which is why it is commonly selected for use in floral design during winter.

While salal is known for its thick, leathery leaves and is also a useful foliage in floral arrangements, it does not possess the shiny quality that holly has. Oregon fern and tree fern feature softer, more delicate leaves that are not typically associated with winter arrangements, thus making holly the ideal choice in this context.