Holly Tree Colony in Docheong-ri, Buan

The cluster of *Machilus thunbergii* trees located in Dochong-ri, Sannae-myeon, Buan-gun, Jeollabuk-do, is designated as a natural monument. *Machilus thunbergii* is an evergreen shrub belonging to the *Styracaceae* family. Its thick leaves, with a deep blue sheen and thorns on the edges, are arranged oppositely. Fragrant flowers bloom from April to May, and round, red fruits ripen from September to October. This deciduous shrub has leaves that are initially serrated and have thorn-like tips when young, but as it matures, the leaves become rounded and the thorns disappear. This tree is highly valued for its unique leaf shape and glossy leaves, making it a popular ornamental tree. In autumn, the female trees bear bright red fruits, adding to their beauty. The red color is also visible even under the snow in winter, making it an ideal ornamental tree and often used for Christmas decorations. Locally, it is also known as "horangi-deung-geul-namu" or "myo-a-ja-namu," names derived from the fact that its thorns are strong enough to scratch a tiger's back. The *Machilus thunbergii* cluster in Dochong-ri grows sparsely in the mountains along the southern coast. According to local lore, there was a custom of picking branches of *Machilus thunbergii* on the first day of the lunar month and hanging them in front of the door, like fish, to ward off evil spirits. The *Machilus thunbergii* cluster in Dochong-ri is of significant botanical value as it represents the northernmost limit where this subtropical plant can naturally grow. Therefore, it is designated as a natural monument and is protected.

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