Ilex aquifolium J C van Tol (H)

Ilex aquifolium J C van Tol

Why Buy Me?

• Can be used as a hedging plant
• Berries provide food for birds
• Glossy leaves

Growing Conditions

Light:
Grows well in full sun to full shade. Tolerates a wide range of light conditions, though best berry production occurs with some sun exposure.

Soil:
Prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Tolerates a range of soil types—loamy, clay, or sandy—and pH levels, though slightly acidic to neutral soils are ideal.

Exposure:
Performs well in sheltered or moderately exposed positions. Wind-tolerant, including coastal winds. Avoid frost pockets for best berry and leaf quality.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Tolerates occasional dry spells once established, but performs best with regular moisture, particularly in dry or sandy soils.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or early autumn, when soil is warm and moisture levels are adequate for establishment.

Spacing:
Space 1.5–2 metres (5–6.5 feet) apart depending on use (hedge, specimen, or screen). Grows to a large shrub or small tree, so allow adequate room.

Watering:
Water regularly during the first year. Once established, needs only occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.

Fertilization:
Feed in early spring with a general-purpose or ericaceous fertilizer if soil is nutrient-poor. Typically low maintenance in healthy soil.

Mulching:
Mulch annually in spring with composted bark or leaf mould to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning:
Minimal pruning needed. Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape, remove dead or crossing branches, or control size. Responds well to trimming if used as a hedge.

Propagation:
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by grafting. Can also be grown from seed, though this is slow.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New glossy, deep green leaves emerge. Small, inconspicuous white flowers appear in late spring (May–June).

Summer:
Foliage remains glossy and attractive. Dark green, smooth-margined (non-spiny) leaves provide structure and elegance.

Autumn:
Bright red berries ripen and persist into winter, adding strong seasonal colour. Berries form even on single plants as this cultivar is self-fertile.

Winter:
Evergreen—retains foliage year-round. Red berries and glossy leaves add winter interest and seasonal appeal, especially around Christmas.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Flowers provide nectar for pollinators; berries are a winter food source for birds (e.g., thrushes, blackbirds). Dense foliage offers shelter and nesting cover.

Garden Use:
Excellent as a specimen shrub, evergreen hedge, topiary, or background plant in borders. Suitable for formal gardens, wildlife gardens, and shaded areas.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with ferns, camellias, rhododendrons, skimmia, and spring-flowering bulbs. Contrasts beautifully with silver or variegated foliage plants like Brunnera or Pulmonaria.

Transform your home and garden with Ilex aquifolium J C van Tol —a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.