Ilex aquifolium
Holly
Common names: Ilex aquifolium
Photo: Public Domain · Source
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Description
The holly, *Ilex aquifolium*, is one of the few native evergreen shrubs that provides bright green foliage even in winter. Its leathery, spiny leaves protect it from browsing and make it a popular bird‑friendly hedge. The plant is dioecious: only female plants produce the striking red berries after pollination by a nearby male plant. The berries and leaves are toxic, so caution is advised around children and pets, especially when berries fall to the ground. Holly is used as a hedge, specimen plant, or bird‑food shrub in many garden styles.
Care instructions
Holly prefers a semi‑shaded to sunny position in humus‑rich, well‑drained soil and tolerates calcareous soils well. Water young plants regularly for the first one to two years; mature plants cope with dry periods. Prune in late winter or early spring (late February to mid‑March, week 8–11) before new growth starts. For abundant berry production, plant both male and female plants nearby; the self‑fertile variety ‘J. C. van Tol’ can be used as an alternative. In the first winter after planting, apply a mulch layer to protect the roots from frost.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, humus-rich, loamy
Feeding
Light feeder
Pruning
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