Although the Holly (Ilex (Aquifoliaceae)) is slow growing most of these make splendid specimen shrubs or small trees. Known for their glossy leaves and red berries, the Holly is commonly used as a Christmas decoration especially in wreaths and is celebrated in the Christmas carol, ‘Deck the Halls’. One of the most popular of Holly species is the Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata', producing white flowers in the summer, red berries in winter with green crisp leaves edged in a creamy yellow.
There are approximately 600 species of Holly in Aquifoliaceae, with the Holly being the only living genus in the family. It is the most native English evergreen, however many hollies are now becoming rare. The most endangered species are the tropical hollies as they are normally threatened by habitat destruction and overexploitation. Through this two species are already known to be extinct with many other species under extreme attack.
Holly is an extremely popular plant to have in the garden, especially when it comes to Christmas and birds. During winter storms holly bushes and trees provide birds with refuge, protection and most importantly food. Our December garden tips provide more information on how you can prepare your garden in Winter for wildlife to feed. Protection for birds comes in the form of the spiny leaves which deter predators away from them, generating refuge for birds against cold and harsh winds and providing food in the form of the berries.
Tips on Growing Holly
- They thrive in almost any well drained soil, but dislike extreme moisture or drought. These varieties tend to a pyramidal habit with the leaves less prickly higher up.
- Keep the surrounding area of the newly planted holly weed free. This can easily be accomplished by mulching the soil.
- Smaller plants are easier to establish, so if it needs to be moved, lift carefully in late-winter or early spring, but make sure you remove a large root ball and water carefully for a year.
- Protect your plant from any animal damage, especially when your garden is recently visited by rabbits.
- If you want to raise new plants, prune cuttings carefully in late-summer or autumn. Take one leading shoot from the centre and tie in to a cane, shortening the other shoots generating a slender, pyramidal shape.
- Berries can be propagated by planting them in pots of sand placed in a cold frame.
- More top gardening tips this season can be found in the Notcutts blog for jobs to do in the Winter
Crazy Facts
Did you know that a traditional use of Holly is to be used for the white chess pieces?
Also several holly species are used to make caffeine-rich herbal teas.