Consulta Plantas

Care of the tree Ilex aquifolium or Common holly

The genus Ilex, family Aquifoliaceae, includes 400 species of trees and shrubs distributed over all continents. Some species are: Ilex aquifolium, Ilex mitis, Ilex canariensis, Ilex brasiliensis, Ilex paraguariensis, Ilex opaca.

Common names: Common holly, English holly, European holly or Christmas holly. This species is native to Europe and North Africa.

They are small, highly branched evergreen trees that reach 10 meters (32.8 feet) in height. The leaves are alternate, bright green (there are variegated varieties) and have a spiny margin. Blooms in spring with insignificant whitish flowers. The red fruits are very decorative and are kept throughout the winter.

They are used as isolated specimens (arboreal bearing) and to form impenetrable hedges (shrubby bearing). They resist wind and pollution from cities well. They are also used to create Christmas decorations.

Ilex aquifolium grows in full sun, semi-shade and shade exposures. They resist frost well.

They grow in any type of soil but prefer soils with loam and organic matter. If they are grown as hedges, they are planted at a distance of 50 cm (1.64 feet) between specimens.

Water regularly so that the substrate is always slightly damp.

Fertilize with a little organic matter in late winter.

If they are used to form hedges, they are pruned in early autumn or late spring to maintain a compact appearance.

They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases.

They are propagated by cuttings from suckers in late summer.

Images of the tree Ilex aquifolium or Common holly