Ilex Aquifolium JC van Tol Holly

Ilex Aquifolium JC van Tol Holly
A UK native, Ilex Aquifolium or common holly, comes in several different varieties. The appeal of the Ilex Aquifolium JC van Tol lies in its very ornamental appearance and the fact that it a self-pollinating female cultivar. As a testament to its exceptional qualities, Royal Horticultural Society granted Holly JC van Tol the Award of Garden Merit in 1993, and ‘Perfect for Pollinators’ badge.

Even at first glance, it is easy to see why JC van Tol is such a popular variety. The ovate, almost spineless evergreen leaves are an opulent, deep green shade and have a high shine to them. Young shoots emerge purple. In spring through to summer, this compact shrub produces inconspicuous white blossoms, which are followed by a profusion of large, bright red berries. The crimson berries remain on the shrub throughout the winter, offering a pop of colour in a dull and bleak winter landscape.

Height and Spread of Ilex Aquifolium JC van Tol
A compact evergreen shrub with an open habit, this holly variety is ideal for small gardens. The maximum expected height for the Holly JC van Tol is 4 to 8 metres, with a spread of 3.5 to 4 metres. If you want this cultivar to stay compact, you should prune it once or twice a year.

How Hardy is Ilex Aquifolium JC van Tol
Common holly is native to the British Isles and this cultivar is perfectly suited to our climate. Holly JC van Tol is fully hardy and can withstand severe winter temperatures without any issues.

How To Use Ilex Aquifolium JC van Tol
The dense, lustrous, evergreen foliage lends itself well to hedging purposes. Plant Holly JC van Tol en masse to form a stunning hedge with year-round interest. The highly decorative growth habit and unusual foliage will ensure visual appeal throughout the seasons, reinforced by masses of blood-red berries in the colder months of the year. To boot, the berries are not just decorative- they are sustenance for wildlife.

How To Care for Ilex Aquifolium JC van Tol
Easy to grow and to care for, this holly cultivar does not need much to thrive. Plant it in well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade. Holly JC van Tol is adaptable but would do best in slightly acidic, humus-rich soil.

Interested in other types of holly? Make sure to take a look at other Illex Aquifolium varieties we have in stock, including the variegated Silver Margined Holly (available in varous topiary shapes or in a mushroom shape) and Holly Alaska or the popular hybrid Ilex Nellie Stevens (available as a pleached tree or potted shrub form).