Holly (Ilex)

6.00

Holly is a beautiful evergreen that brings seasonal charm to any garden, with lush green leaves providing winter shelter for small wildlife. Known for its bright red berries, especially in winter, Holly supports birds who feed on them, helping spread new holly plants. Its timeless appeal and wildlife benefits make it a popular choice for year-round interest.

In stock

Category:

Description

Holly is a wonderful flowering plant to keep when you want to add something special and seasonal to your garden.

It’s not just decorative looking but it can be beneficial since the evergreen leaves provide shelter for animals, bugs, or other small critters during winter. Towards the end of winter and all through autumn, the leaves start to lose their color, creating a picturesque scene in your garden that can please everyone’s eyes.

Also known as Holm-oaks and Hales, Holly trees may sometimes produce berries during wintertime or other months as well. These berries can last for a long time without spoiling! They are commonly eaten by birds who will spread them around so more fruit-bearing holly trees will grow in the future.

Additional information

Size

30-50cm when young.

Growth Rate

Slow to moderate; reaches a mature height of 4-15 meters, depending on the species and growing conditions.

Hardiness

Very hardy; tolerates cold, wind, and shade well, making it suitable for a variety of climates.

Soil Conditions

Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils but adapts to a wide range, including sandy and clay soils.

Seasonality

Evergreen; maintains its glossy green foliage year-round, with bright red berries in autumn and winter.

Maintenance

Low-maintenance; responds well to pruning and is commonly trimmed to maintain dense foliage for hedging or decorative shapes.

Wildlife Benefits

Provides essential food and shelter for wildlife; berries attract birds in winter, and dense foliage offers protection for small mammals and nesting birds.

Companion Planting

Pairs well with other native shrubs and trees like hawthorn, rowan, and yew, enhancing biodiversity in woodland and garden settings.

Pest Resistance

Generally resilient, though may occasionally be susceptible to holly leaf miner and scale insects; minimal monitoring is usually sufficient.