Tree
Common holly
Ilex aquifolium
A slow-growing evergreen tree with glossy, usually spiny leaves, small white spring flowers and red berries on pollinated female plants. It is very hardy and shade-tolerant, but eventually becomes a large tree unless a smaller cultivar or hedge form is chosen.
- Size
- 10–15 m high · 4–8 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun / Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Very hardy
- Seasonal form
- Evergreen
- Maintenance
- Low
Before planting
- Allow for a large long-lived tree, or deliberately choose a smaller cultivar or clipped hedge form for limited space.
- If berries matter, select a female plant and confirm that a compatible male holly flowers nearby at the same time.
- In parts of western North America, holly can escape gardens and affect native habitats. Outside its native range, check local planting guidance.
Why choose it
- Glossy evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and red berries can add strong winter colour.
- It tolerates partial shade and suits screening; in colder regions, shelter it from cold winter winds.
Care
- Water during establishment and prolonged drought; established trees generally need little pruning.
- Trim hedges in early spring and avoid removing more flowering wood than needed if berries are desired.
Good to know
- Male plants do not produce berries; fruit are ornamental and should not be eaten.