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Ilex genus (Holly). A genus of 400-600 evergreen or deciduous trees and shrubs which mainly produce spherical fruits. They are the only surviving genus in the Aquifoliaceae family. In the spring they bloom with insignificant white flowers. In autumn berries form, ranging in colour from red to yellow and black. Hollies are fully to half hardy and prefer well drained soil.
Deciduous or Evergreens, Shrubs or Trees
Grown for their foliage and fruits (berries). This shrub is very attractive to birds. Suitable for coastal conditions.
Grow in sun or shade, but deciduous plants and those with variegated foliage do best in sun or semi-shade. Hollies dislike being transplanted, but respond well to hard pruning and pollarding, which should be carried out in late spring. Watch out for the spines.
You can propagate by seeds in the spring or by semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to early winter.
Holly leaf miner and holly aphid may cause problems.
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