Ilex Aquifolium

Perfect for use as English Holly Hedging, Ilex Aquifolium are evergreen holly shrubs. These medium-sized evergreen hollies have wonderful glossy sharp tipped leaves. They begin with dull small white flowers in the spring, which occur on male and female plants separately. Their beautiful berries occur on pollinated female shrubs. They are slow growers, with dark, glossy green leaves that are strongly spiny.  Fully hardy, these Ilex Aquifolium shrubs makes an excellent hedge plants (although they are not fast growing) or can be used as an standalone ornamental shrub and shaped as a pyramid or globe.

The English Holly is a recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society. Its origins are from Europe to North Africa and across the hemisphere to South and Western Asia.  A member of the Aquifoliaceae Family, the Ilex Aquifolium will grow to higher than 12 metres if allowed to grow vertically; with ultimate spread of 4-8 metres. It’s a long lived plant, ranging from 20-50 years to reach ultimate height. Typically managed as a hedge or standalone shrub, they are well suited as a flower border or in beds, evergreen screening,  in city and country gardens alike, in coastal gardens, or just in an informal placement.
Ilex Aquifolium  grows well in most all soil conditions. It will perform best in well-drained soil with a sunny position; but is also suitable for partial shade. In order of preference, its Aspect should be facing South, North, West, or East. It can tolerate exposure, or do well in sheltered environments. Ilex Aquifolium is hardy to Zone H6 in the UK and Ireland.

English Holly likes a pH near neutral and can grow well in slightly acidic or slightly alkaline pH. It will prefer moist soil but does need adequate internal drainage. From sand to clay, chalk and loam, its adaptation covers many soil textures.

Ilex aquifolium can be an ideal hedging plant due to its growth habit requiring minimal maintenance. Its dense form and prickly leaves serve well as borders to keep natural intruders out. Though slightly irritating to the human stomach, birds love the berries, attracting them through the winter months. It can be shaped to most any form to fit your landscape as a border or standalone. 

Other Hollies available to buy include Ilex Nellie Stevens