in europe the genus is represented by a single species the classically named holly ilex aquifolium and in continental africa by this species and ilex mitis ilex canariensis from macaronesia and ilex aquifolium arose from a common ancestor in the laurel forests of the mediterranean australia isolated at an early period has ilex arnhemensis of  species growing in china  species are endemic a species which stands out for its economic importance in spanish-speaking countries is ilex paraguariensis or yerba mate having evolved numerous species that are endemic to islands and small mountain ranges and being highly useful plants many hollies are now becoming rare