Skip to content

English Holly

Ilex Aquifolium

Design with this plant

Overview

English Holly (Ilex aquifolium) is an evergreen shrub renowned for its glossy, dark green leaves with spiky margins. Mature at 15-50 feet with a spread of 10-35 feet, it produces red berries in winter that attract birds. Prefers well-drained, acidic soil and partial to full sun. Utilize as a specimen, hedge, or privacy screen for year-round interest. Caution: Leaves and berries are toxic if ingested; handle with care.

Sun Full, HalfWater MediumZones 6–10

Culture

Sun
Full, Half
Water
Medium
USDA zones
6–10

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Aquifoliaceae

See full data, regional cultivation notes, full-resolution photos, and design tools. Build a client presentation around this plant.

Start your 14-day trial

Photos (117)

English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — though toxic to humans if ingested.<br><br>Careful planning about placement is essential; english Holly (Ilex aquifolium) is
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — commonly known as the English Holly
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — is an iconic evergreen species renowned for its glossy
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — English Holly (Ilex aquifolium) is an evergreen shrub renowned for its glossy
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — dark green leaves with spiky margins
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — Mature at 15-50 feet with a spread of 10-35 feet, it produces red berries in winter that attract birds
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — Prefers well-drained, acidic soil and partial to full sun
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — Utilize as a specimen, hedge, or privacy screen for year-round interest
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — Caution: Leaves and berries are toxic if ingested; handle with care
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — deep green leaves and vibrant red berries
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — An excellent choice for creating focal points or hedges within a garden design
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — the English Holly can reach heights of 15 to 30 feet with a spread of 10 to 20 feet at maturity
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — The leaves are characteristically spiny and can range from 1 to 3 inches in length
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — consider its need for well-drained
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — preferably with a slightly acidic to neutral pH
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9 and prefers exposure to full sun to partial shade
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — The English Holly is dioecious
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — though toxic to humans if ingested.<br><br>Careful planning about placement is essential
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — as the plant's sharp leaves might make it unsuitable for areas frequented by children or pets
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — For optimal growth and berry display
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — occasional pruning will help maintain its shape and promote a more lush
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — Moreover, incorporating mulch can help retain moisture and protect the root zone in colder climates
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — The English Holly's stately presence and seasonal interest make it a timeless addition to any landscape design
English Holly (Ilex Aquifolium) — broadleaf evergreen for full or half

Related plants