Ilex aquifolium (Common holly Hedging) |
Position: Full sun to deep shade. Stands exposed sites
Soil: Any well drained but moist soil, acid or alkaline
Rate of growth: 10-20cm per year
Height: Eventually 20m, may be kept 1-4m with pruning
Spread: As a tree, eventually 10m, may be kept 1-3m with pruning
Flowers: Clusters of small cream flowers in spring
Fruit: Usually red fruit on female plants
CAUTION: Toxic if eaten
In our opinion, UK-native holly is one of the best of all plants for a hedge. Evergreen, dense-growing, tolerant of a range of conditions and with super-glossy leaves edged with intruder-deterring spines, it makes a perfect choice in many situations, be they urban or rural. It looks at home in a traditional setting, perhaps as a front garden hedge above a low wall, or on a larger scale in front of estate fencing, but it can fit more contemporary settings too. You can clip Ilex aquifolium quite tightly for a sharp, formal look or leave to grow looser as a more informal screen, when you may also get colourful winter berries from female plants. This is also a really great plant for wildlife – birds will enjoy the berries while the dense growth provides cover for many creatures. Common holly holds an Award of Garden Merit (AGM) from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) which is given only to the best garden plants.
Dimensions | N/A |
---|---|
Root Type | Pot Grown, Root Ball |
Description / Size | 140 to 160cm, 35L pot, 160 to 180cm, 35L pot |