About
Ilex pernyi, Perny's holly, is an upright, evergreen large shrub or small tree to 9 m with almost rectangular, dark-green, strongly spiny leaves. Yellowish flowers in late spring are followed by bright-red berries in autumn. An architectural and distinctive holly for a sheltered garden.
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 typeSand, Loam, Clay, Chalk
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline, Acid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, 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 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