About
Ilex aquifolium 'Bacciflava' (f), the yellow-fruited holly, is a large evergreen tree to around 15 m with spiny, dark-green leaves to 8 cm long. Female flowers in late spring are followed by bright-yellow berries that ripen in autumn and persist through winter, offering a striking alternative to the traditional red-berried forms.
About the genus
Ilex, the hollies, are evergreen or deciduous shrubs and trees with often spiny, leathery leaves and small, white flowers � male and female usually on separate plants. Female plants produce the familiar red, yellow or black berries in autumn and winter when pollinated by a male nearby.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Architectural
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade
PruningPruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn or propagate by hardwood cuttings in January with bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, holly leaf miner and young shoots may be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to holly leaf blight, Phytophthora root rot and sometimes honey fungus