Product description
Ilex aquifolium ‘Argentea Marginata’ more commonly known as Silver Variegated Holly is an excellent medium-sized evergreen specimen tree, perfect for a garden that gets lots of sunlight. With its spiky dark green leaves bordered with cream this tree would thrive in an urban or coastal setting as it copes well with pollution and salt-laden air.
The Silver-Margined Holly produces masses of red berries in Autumn to Winter although inedible for humans, they are both attractive to look at and a crucial food source for animals and birds throughout the Winter months.
It is important to have a male holly near the female Holly to produce berries. This plant only requires a little pruning, to make great shapes for hedging. Simply remove any damaged branches in Spring or Summer. Trim the plant will help in keeping its shape compact.
Due to the Ilex aquifolium flowering late, also makes it incredibly attractive to Autumn butterflies and moths as most other plants have finished flowering for the year. Stems of the Holly are idea for Winter floral arrangements.
Holly Tree
Ilex 'Argentea Marginata'
Ilex 'Argentea Marginata'
Product description
Ilex aquifolium ‘Argentea Marginata’ more commonly known as Silver Variegated Holly is an excellent medium-sized evergreen specimen tree, perfect for a garden that gets lots of sunlight. With its spiky dark green leaves bordered with cream this tree would thrive in an urban or coastal setting as it copes well with pollution and salt-laden air.
The Silver-Margined Holly produces masses of red berries in Autumn to Winter although inedible for humans, they are both attractive to look at and a crucial food source for animals and birds throughout the Winter months.
It is important to have a male holly near the female Holly to produce berries. This plant only requires a little pruning, to make great shapes for hedging. Simply remove any damaged branches in Spring or Summer. Trim the plant will help in keeping its shape compact.
Due to the Ilex aquifolium flowering late, also makes it incredibly attractive to Autumn butterflies and moths as most other plants have finished flowering for the year. Stems of the Holly are idea for Winter floral arrangements.
Give your tree the best start
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune Ilex trees in late winter or early spring to shape and remove any damaged or dead branches. Regular trimming can encourage bushy growth, especially for hedging purposes. For varieties producing berries, ensure both male and female plants are nearby to promote pollination. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring to support healthy foliage and vibrant berries throughout the growing season.
How to Water
Water Ilex trees deeply after planting, continuing regularly during their first year to establish a strong root system. Mature plants are drought-tolerant but will benefit from consistent watering during prolonged dry spells. Avoid overwatering as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot. Water in the morning or late afternoon to minimise evaporation and target the soil around the roots, ensuring even moisture. Using rainwater is beneficial for maintaining optimal soil pH.
How to Plant
To plant Ilex, choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball, allowing room for root spread. Soak the root ball thoroughly before planting, then position the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, firming gently around the base. Water deeply to settle the soil and reduce air pockets. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it away from the trunk. Ensure spacing of at least 100–150 cm between plants to accommodate their growth.
