About
A bushy, spreading, large shrub or small tree to around 4m tall. Dark green, leathery leaves are up to 15cm long and 10cm wide with short stalks and short teeth. Small white flowers in late spring are followed by red berries on female plants if pollinated by a male.
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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeTrees, Shrubs
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toSpain (Canary Islands- Tenerife, La Gomera)
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 with shelter from cold winds. Suited to warmer, and coastal southern counties
PruningPruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
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 and Phytophthora root diseases