TreesIlex aquifolium
English Holly
English Holly is a stately, evergreen tree with glossy, spiny dark green leaves that provide a magnificent backdrop in winter. Female specimens bear bright red berries that are indispensable winter food for birds. The tree grows slowly but can live for centuries.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade, Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 500–1500 cm
- Spread
- 300–600 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 6–9
- Family
- Aquifoliaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- white
- Wildlife value
- birds, bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in partial shade or sun in moist, well-drained soil. The plant is reasonably adaptable but grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil. Plant both a male and female specimen for berry production. Water regularly during dry periods.
Pruning tips
Prune in late spring or after the berries in early spring. The tree tolerates hard pruning and is excellent for topiary. Wear sturdy gloves due to the spiny leaves. Remove dead branches and suckers.
Good companions
TreesTaxus baccata
English Yew
English Yew is an evergreen conifer used both as a freestanding tree and as a formal hedge. Its dark green needles are densely packed and form an impenetrable screen. Female trees bear striking red berries in autumn. All parts except the berry flesh are poisonous.
ShrubsBuxus sempervirens
Boxwood
Boxwood is an evergreen shrub with small, glossy dark green leaves that is ideal for topiary and hedging. The plant grows slowly and can live for hundreds of years. Small green-yellow flowers appear in April and May, attracting early bees.
PerennialsHelleborus orientalis
Lenten Rose
The Lenten Rose is one of the first bloomers of the garden year, with saucer-shaped flowers in purple, pink or white appearing as early as February. The evergreen, palmate foliage forms attractive clumps that remain decorative year-round. The plant is a valuable early nectar source for bees.