Ilex aquifolium
Common Holly
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Common Name: Common holly
Latin Name: Ilex aquifolium
Soil: Acid, alkaline and neutral. Moist but well drained.
Position: Full sun to part shade.
Flowering period/colour: May
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height and spread in 20 years: 12m/4-8m
Special features: Glossy evergreen foliage and red berries, traditionally used in Christmas displays. Berries attractive to birds. Tolerates air pollution.
Ilex aquifolium is an iconic plant in British culture as it is the source of the evergreen foliage and red berries used in Christmas decorations. The leaves are a glossy green colour with strong spikes and a striking geometric form. Along with the delight of year-round interest, this tree can be the foundation of your own family’s festive traditions. It will provide freshly-cut Christmas displays, every year; and straight from your own garden.
Common holly is very easy to grow, thriving in any soil pH and type. It has a slight preference for well drained soil, but will adapt to most locations. It is a slow growing tree with no risk of overwhelming a garden location. Final height is achieved in between 20 and 50 years. Holly can, however be pruned and kept to a given shape or size. As the plant is evergreen, it never calls for the extra work of collecting leaves in autumn.