About
This low-growing, wide-spreading, evergreen shrub eventually reaching a height of 1m. Small white male flowers are borne in spring, ideal for pollinating female Japanese holly plants. Its small, glossy, ovate to rounded leaves up to 2cm long emerge pale green before maturing to dark green.
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 typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing, North-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
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 slightly acidic soil in a location which enjoys cooler, damp summers. Avoid waterlogged and very dry soils. Does not perform well as hedging in most parts of the UK. For alternatives to this and Box hedging, please go to Box alternatives and How to choose Box alternatives
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