About

'Ilex aquifolium 'Myrtifolia Aurea' is a compact, evergreen tree that typically reaches heights of 3 to 4 meters. It features purple stems and dark green, spiny leaves that measure up to 4 centimeters in length, accented by golden-yellow edges. In the spring, it produces clusters of small white flowers. This male variety is particularly useful for pollinating female holly plants.

About the genus

Ilex consists of shrubs and trees that can either be deciduous or evergreen. They typically feature leaves with a spiny texture, produce small white flowers (with male and female blooms usually found on different plants), and the female specimens bear prominent berries in the fall.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H6

Plant details

Plant type

Shrubs, Trees

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

2.5-4 metres

Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Time to full height

10-20 years

Suggested uses

Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Toxicity

Fruit 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

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in a sunny position. Although partial shade is suitable, variegated cultivars have better leaf colour in full sun

Pruning

Pruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn to midwinter

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to scale insects, holly leaf miner and young shoots may be susceptible to aphids

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to holly leaf blight, Phytophthora root rot and sometimes honey fungus