Ilex aquifolium – A Classic Evergreen with Glossy Foliage and Vibrant Winter Berries
Ilex aquifolium, commonly known as English Holly, is a stunning evergreen shrub or small tree, prized for its glossy, dark green leaves with sharp spines and its striking red berries that appear in winter. This versatile plant is a timeless favorite in gardens, hedges, and landscapes, where it adds structure, seasonal interest, and a touch of festive charm. With its dense, upright form, Ilex aquifolium can be used for creating privacy screens, formal hedges, or as a focal point in mixed plantings.
In spring and summer, its rich green foliage provides a lush backdrop to other plants, while its dense growth offers shelter for wildlife. As winter approaches, the plant comes alive with clusters of bright red berries that attract birds and add a vibrant pop of colour to the landscape. The berries, which are toxic to humans, are an essential food source for various bird species, particularly in the colder months when other food sources are scarce.
Ilex aquifolium is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that thrives in a variety of soil types and conditions. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil, and although it can tolerate some shade, it performs best in full sun. It is also highly tolerant of urban environments, making it a popular choice for city gardens and parks. Whether used as a specimen tree, a hedge, or a backdrop for other plantings, English Holly brings a touch of elegance and year-round beauty to any garden.
Why Grow Ilex aquifolium?
Attractive Winter Berries – The vivid red berries that appear in winter are a standout feature, providing vibrant colour during the colder months when many other plants are dormant.
Evergreen Foliage – The glossy, dark green leaves offer year-round interest and create a classic, polished look in gardens. The spiny leaves also add texture and contrast to softer plants.
Wildlife-Friendly – Ilex aquifolium is a valuable plant for wildlife, particularly birds, which rely on its berries for food in winter. Its dense growth also provides shelter for various creatures.
Low-Maintenance – Once established, English Holly requires minimal care. It is tolerant of a range of conditions and resistant to many pests and diseases, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives best in sunny locations, though it can tolerate some shade, especially in warmer climates. A sunny spot will encourage the most abundant berry production.
Soil: Best planted in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Ilex aquifolium is adaptable to a variety of soil types, but it is important to avoid overly wet or waterlogged soils.
Watering: Water regularly when newly planted to help establish the root system. Once established, it is fairly drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods.
Maintenance:
Pruning is minimal but can be done to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged wood, or control its size. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Mulch also provides protection to the roots in winter.
Fertilizing is generally not necessary for Ilex aquifolium, but a balanced fertilizer in spring can help promote healthy growth if the plant is in poor soil.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Ilex aquifolium pairs beautifully with other evergreen plants such as Boxwood, Yew, or Laurel, where its sharp, spiny leaves contrast nicely with their softer foliage. For a more naturalistic look, combine with deciduous shrubs like Viburnum or Cornus, where the bright red berries of the holly will stand out against the background of changing seasonal colours. It also works well as part of a woodland or mixed border, where its vertical growth provides structure among low-growing perennials and groundcovers.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
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