About
Large, rounded, slow-growing shrub to 4m in height, with rectangular, leathery, glossy green leaves with a terminal spine only. Small white female flowers in late spring are followed by generously produced large red berries if pollinated by a male cultivar; the berries often remain on the plant until winter.
About the genus
Ilex can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs and trees with often spiny leaves, small white flowers (male and female usually on separate plants) and, on female plants, showy berries in autumn
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
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 a sunny or part-shaded position
PruningPruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn to midwinter
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