Ilex aquifolium

The species of common holly is one of the tallest evergreen plants available in zone 6. It has 5-7 cm long, dark green, alternate leaves, very glossy, and with sharp thorns along the edges. Tiny flowers appear at the end of spring and are followed by vivid red berries in the autumn, so typical for hollies. This highly decorative plant is very popular as a half-standard or a shaped shrub.

You can easily prune it to keep it compact. Yearly growths can be vigorous so you can soon model a desired shape. Pruning in April will encourage new growths, trimming by end July is ideal for shaping. Unlike e.g. Alaska variety, this holly if grown in zone 5 has to be protected from freezing winds and winter sunlight so we suggest planting it in shade or semi-shade in colder climate.

Hollies will adapt to most soils, however, but for best results grow them in moist but well-drained, deep, light, preferably acidic, and humus-rich soil. They can take periods of drought once established. Reliably hardy to -24°C (USDA zone6) and withstands occasional swings even a little lower.

Last update 15-02-2009