ILEX
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ILEX
Commonly known as Common holly, English holly
Another member of the Christmas trinity with Ivy and Fir.
Another essential for the garden, either as a specimen, a backdrop to other plantings or even in a container for a few sprigs for a seasonal arrangement.
Gaudy golds, less showy silvers and subtle dark greens and berries in red, black, occasionally white, orange or yellow.
Genus of over 400 species of evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs and, rarely, climbers, from woodland in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions.
The native, I. aquifolium is a small tree of mysticism and magic, a protector of the house from evil and lightning and provider of timber for the finest woodwork.
Full Plant Details - Sun/Soil & other attributes
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BerriesThese plants have berries.
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Good to know
Wildlife plant - birds, insects -
Pests & Diseases
Scale insects, leaf miners. -
Place of origin
Western and southern Europe, northern Africa, western Asia. -
EvergreenOvate, puckered leaves 3-7cm (1¼-3in) long with a few marginal spiny teeth.
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Coastal / windsweptSlightly back from the sea with more shelter
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Fully hardy
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Gold variegated
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Height
4m (13ft) -
Spread
3m (10ft)
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HedgeIdeal for hedgingSuitable for a coastal hedge if given some protection from direct sea-winds
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Tall ShrubBroad, upright shrub with purple branches. Berries sparsely.
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Pruning group 1
Suitable for: Deciduous and evergreen trees, and some deciduous shrubs.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Prune wayward or crossing branches to maintain a healthy framework.
When: When dormant in the late winter/early spring. Some in the summer/autumn to prevent bleeding of sap.
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Hardy - cold winter
Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/northern locations. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F) -
Autumn Seasonal Interest
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Spring Seasonal Interest
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Summer Seasonal Interest
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Winter Seasonal Interest
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Fertile moist well-drained soil
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Full sun
For best leaf colour. -
Partial shade
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Bee friendly
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Bird friendly
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Butterfly friendly
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Mature Size4m (13ft)
3m (10ft)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Cold weather damage to evergreen plants
Ilex - Growing Guide
