Ilex aquifolium (Holly)

Very dense prickly evergreen, glossy green foliage, tiny white flowers in spring followed by red berries in winter on pollinated female plants.

lex aquifolium, commonly known as Holly, is a hardy evergreen shrub or small tree native to the UK and much of Europe, prized for its glossy, spiny leaves and bright red berries. As a native hedging plant, it provides year-round structure and colour, offering both ornamental beauty and ecological benefits. The dense, prickly foliage creates an effective natural barrier for privacy and security, while also serving as valuable shelter for birds and small mammals. Its nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators in spring, and the berries provide a vital food source for wildlife during the winter months. Slow-growing yet long-lived, Holly thrives in a wide range of soils, from sandy to clay, and can tolerate shade as well as exposed sites, making it a versatile and sustainable choice for hedgerows, screens, and traditional countryside planting schemes.