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Ilex aquifolium (English holly)

Ilex aquifolium Photo/Illustration: Colleen Fitzpatrick


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Ilex aquifolium EYE-leks ah-kwih-FOE-lee-um Common Name: English holly Genus: Ilex
This tall, pyramidal, evergreen tree may be grown as a large shrub. Its evergreen, spiny foliage is leathery and glossy. Insignificant, though fragrant, flowers bloom in spring followed by red, orange, or yellow drupes that attract birds. Many cultivars are available.
 Noteworthy characteristics: English holly is less hardy than our American holly (I. opaca) and is more difficult to grow in some areas of the country. However, it is an agressive/invasive plant in certain areas, including the Pacific Northwest.
 Care: Provide full sun to part shade and moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered site. In hot climates, English holly grows best with some afternoon shade. Prune in winter, if desired. Plant at least one male pollinator to ensure fruit set.
 Propagation: Take semi-ripe cuttings in summer or early fall.
 Problems: Holly leaf miner, spider mites, whitefly, scale, leaf spot, leaf rot, tar spot, powdery mildew. leaf scorch, leaf drop, chlorosis. Aphids may prey on young shoots.
Height Over 30 ft.
Spread 15 ft. to 30 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Attracts Birds; Showy Fruit
Bloom Time Spring
Flower Color White Flower
Uses , Beds and Borders, Hedge, Specimen Plant/ Focal Point
Seasonal Interest , Winter Interest, Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type ,Shrubs,Trees

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