English Holly – Ilex aquifolium

Common holly, Ilex aquifolium, is a useful evergreen shrub that can be grown as a specimen tree, clipped bush or hedge. There are dozens of varieties, many with variegated leaves. Plants are either male or female, and only the female plants bear berries. Both sexes are required for the female plants to produce berries, which appear from late autumn to mid-winter. For best results grow Ilex aquifolium in moist but well-drained soil, in sun or shade. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM)

Ilex aquifolium is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, birds, butterflies​/​moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers, provides shelter and habitat, makes a good wildlife hedge, has seeds for birds and is a caterpilar food plant

Plant Key

Full Shade

Partial Shade

Full Sun

Evergreen

Wildlife Friendly

Fruits / Berries

Suitable as Hedge