The Hollies are a large group of evergreen trees and shrubs, which provide some of the most attractive specimen shrubs and hedging plants to be found. Hollies can be grown in most soil as they are very adaptable, and are indifferent to sun or shade.

 

 

 

Certain species are invaluable for hergemaking and will withstand polluted atmosphere and maritime exposure. This is key for so many coastal areas in Ireland. In other words, if you live near the irish coast, don’t worry! it can still grow very well!

Holly Tree Characteristics

As a group they display a great variety of leaf form and colour (more on the different types below).

Male and female flowers are borne usually on separate plants, followed by berries which can give a stunning display in winter time. Hollies are excellent to attract wild birds into the garden both as a food source and nesting site.

Grown in containers, hollies make excellent specimens outside the front door, on a patio, or in a terracotta pot next to a pool or water feature. Some of the most suitable varieties, for rich foliage and variegated leaf form are Ilex Golden King, Ilex Silver Queen, J C Van Toll, Silver Van Toll.

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Types of Holly Bush

There are many different species of Holly (ilex), such as the very ornamental species ilex golden king and ilex silver queen. They are both male and female species of holly and you would need both growing in the same area if you want your holly to produce berries. Strangely enough, Golden King is the female and Silver queen is the male.

At Parkswood tree centre, we have a diverse selection.

Ilex Aquifolium – Common Holly

• There is no more beautiful or useful evergreen for this climate.
• The native Ilex aquafoliam is an excellent holly tree or shrub -making it a very versatile type of holly.
• Both male and female plants are required for the female plant to produce berries. However as all ilex aquifolium holly plants look the same and there is no way to distinguish them, it is very much by chance that you hope you have both male and female plants when purchasing.

Planting instructions for Holly Tree

• All ilex holly plants must be planted from containers, do not plant ilex holly plants bareroot as they will more than likely fail.
• When planting from a pot or container, dig a hole slightly larger than the pot size.
• Place the plant in the hole and back fill with soil.
• Gently firm in the Ilex holly.

 

Holly Tree Uses

Holly trees and plants are much associated with folklore. Holly trees have many uses:

1. They make an excellent stock proof hedge, or can be planted at various points through a beech or hawthorn hedge, providing year round colour, when the other species have lost their leaves.

2.  A Holly tree makes an excellent standard tree in the garden, and can be pruned into an ornamental shape.

3. Holly trees provide berries for wild birds, and shelter for animals.  

4. Holly is of course a classic Christmas decoration 🎄.  It can be used for Christmas wreaths and other general festive decor. With it’s bright and luscious green colors along the vibrant red berries; holly represents the season very well.

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Further typical Holly tree questions we get:

Is the holly tree native to Ireland?

Yes, the Holly is a native Irish tree. Our lex aquifolium, also known as common or English holly is native to Ireland.

Where do holly trees grow best?

Holly Trees (ilex) will grow in most sites even the most exposed locations, as their leaves have a wax coating which helps protect the plant from wind damage.

How tall do holly trees grow in Ireland?

Holly (ilex) can grow up to 10 metres tall, but can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.  Holly trees in Ireland are common and can fit in a number of different places.

Is holly fast or slow growing?

Holly(ilex) is a slow growing tree.

Male vs female holly tree

If you are lucky enough to have both male and female holly trees; then you’ll have an abundance of berries in winter time.

Is Silver Queen holly a male?

Yes! Despite the title, this is a male tree. This particular types bears distinctive silver margins on its spiny and glossy green leaves.

What does the holly tree signify?

In Ireland, holly trees have been associated with various symbolic meanings over time. For example:

Protection and defense: Holly has long been seen as a protective plant in Ireland, with its sharp thorns believed to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. It was also believed that holly could protect people and animals from harm.

Fertility and rebirth: In Irish folklore, holly was sometimes associated with fertility and rebirth. This was likely due to the fact that holly retains its green leaves and red berries throughout the winter, even when other plants have died back or gone dormant. The constant presence of holly was seen as a symbol of enduring life and vitality.

Winter and Christmas: Holly along with Christmas trees, is nature’s reminder of December time. Ireland like so many countries around the world, cherish holly at this time of year – especially when you can get you’re hands on holly with berries still on them!!

Ready to put this beautiful tree in your garden?

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