Ilex aquifolium aka Holly

Taxonomy

Ilex aquifolium, commonly known as English holly, is an evergreen tree or shrub that belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family. It is native to western and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia. With its deep green, thorny leaves and small red berries, it is often associated with Christmas and is used in wreaths, garlands, and decorations. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 10 meters in height, but is typically found at much smaller heights of 2-3 meters. Its berries ripen in the fall and remain on the branches throughout winter, providing a food source for wildlife. It is a popular choice for winter landscaping and can be grown as an individual plant or developed into a hedgerow. In addition to its ornamental use, Ilex aquifolium has a great capacity to adapt to different conditions and is a pioneer species that repopulates the margins of forests or clearcuts. It is one of the few native hardwood evergreen trees in the British Isles and can live up to 500 years, although it usually does not reach 100 due to cutting or fire. Ilex aquifolium is also sometimes referred to as common holly or Christmas holly. It is a subject of music and folklore, especially in the British tradition. The female plant produces the bright red berries, which are represented in wreaths, garlands, and cards wherever Christmas is celebrated. It is a popular ornamental shrub or hedge, with numerous cultivars in a range of colors. Common Holly, a houseplant belonging to the Ilex genus, is native to Western and Central Europe, Northern Africa, and Western Asia. It is a relatively easy plant to grow and requires regular watering and direct light. It prefers soil that retains moisture and does not usually require added fertilizers if repotted when it doubles in size.

Common names

Holly, English Holly, Common Holly

How to care for Holly

Difficulty

Holly requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Holly should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Its needs are relatively simple, but one of the most important is making sure its soil is adequately moist. Without proper moisture, the plant can suffer from wilting and stunted growth. To ensure your Holly is healthy, you must choose a potting soil that retains moisture.

Look for a soil with good drainage to prevent root rot, but also make sure it contains plenty of organic matter. Coco coir and sphagnum moss are both excellent ingredients for retaining moisture and providing the #self.names with the nutrients it needs to thrive. If you can find a soil that has a combination of these ingredients, your #self.names will thank you with beautiful blooms.

Lighting

Holly requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Holly will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Holly to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Holly is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Fertilizer

The growth of Holly is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Holly’s native range is Western and central Europe, including Britain, from Norway to Germany south to the Mediterranean.


More info:
Wikipedia