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Ilex aquifolium

Common Holly

Award Winner Loved by Pollinators Low Maintenance Hardiness H6

Glossy spiny evergreen leaves, red winter berries on female plants and excellent wildlife value make Ilex aquifolium one of Ireland’s most useful native trees. It suits hedging, screening and woodland planting but can eventually reach 10 metres or more if left unpruned.
SKU: ILEX-248-Y
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Plant Details

Flowering Months

January, not a flowering month
February, not a flowering month
March, not a flowering month
April, not a flowering month
May, flowering month
June, flowering month
July, not a flowering month
August, not a flowering month
September, not a flowering month
October, not a flowering month
November, not a flowering month
December, not a flowering month

Size

Max Height
12.0 m +
Max Spread
4.0 m — 8.0 m
Growth Habit
Densely branched plant with compact, leafy, rounded overall shape.

Planting Position

Sunlight Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.
Full Sun Part Shade
Aspect Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.
South East West
Exposure Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.
Exposed / Sheltered
Hardiness Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.
Hardiness H6 (−20 to −15 °C) Very cold-hardy

Ideal Soil Conditions

Soil Type Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.
Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Soil Moisture Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.
Moist but permeable / Free draining
Soil pH Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.
Acid Alkaline Neutral

Plant Uses & Merits

Uses
  • Architectural
  • Patios / Courtyards
  • Coastal Areas
  • Hedging / Screening
Merits
  • Low Maintenance
  • RHS | Award Of Garden Merit
  • Loved By Pollinators

Ilex aquifolium Description

Ilex aquifolium, common holly, is a native evergreen tree or large shrub with glossy dark green leaves that are often strongly spined on younger growth. Small white flowers appear in late spring and are followed on female plants by bright red berries where a male holly grows nearby. The berries provide winter food for birds, while the dense foliage offers valuable shelter and nesting cover. Mature trees can reach 10 metres or more, although holly responds well to regular clipping and can be maintained as a hedge. Grow in sun or shade in fertile, well-drained soil. It is exceptionally hardy and well adapted to Irish conditions. The berries are ornamental and should not be eaten.

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