Product description
If you love Hollies, the Ilex aquifolium 'Madame Briot' is another classic variation to add to your garden. It features dark green foliage with spiny edges that are trimmed with a golden yellow border. The tree is evergreen, ensuring colour in your garden all year round.
In spring it offers small white flowers and in autumn it becomes a joy to behold, laden with bright red berries that deepen to a rich red and remain on the branches throughout the winter. This Holly is a female plant and requires a male partner nearby to pollinate it in order to produce berries.
Madame Briot is a hardy plant that can withstand cold temperatures down to -15 °C. It can thrive in sun, partial shade or shade, making it a great choice to plant in an area under a large tree where little else will grow. The Holly is tolerant of most soil types and is also tolerant of exposure and coastal positions.
Hollies make great festive decorations for the Christmas season. They also add colour and interest to your garden all year round. Hollies are easy to maintain, requiring minimal time, making them the ideal choice for busy people who want variety in their garden.
They can be grown as a focal point near an entrance way or planted in a dull corner to add colour. They also make excellent hedging and screening. The red berries attract birds into your garden, adding movement and sound to the natural ambience of your special space.
Holly Tree
Ilex 'Madame Briot'
Ilex 'Madame Briot'
Product description
If you love Hollies, the Ilex aquifolium 'Madame Briot' is another classic variation to add to your garden. It features dark green foliage with spiny edges that are trimmed with a golden yellow border. The tree is evergreen, ensuring colour in your garden all year round.
In spring it offers small white flowers and in autumn it becomes a joy to behold, laden with bright red berries that deepen to a rich red and remain on the branches throughout the winter. This Holly is a female plant and requires a male partner nearby to pollinate it in order to produce berries.
Madame Briot is a hardy plant that can withstand cold temperatures down to -15 °C. It can thrive in sun, partial shade or shade, making it a great choice to plant in an area under a large tree where little else will grow. The Holly is tolerant of most soil types and is also tolerant of exposure and coastal positions.
Hollies make great festive decorations for the Christmas season. They also add colour and interest to your garden all year round. Hollies are easy to maintain, requiring minimal time, making them the ideal choice for busy people who want variety in their garden.
They can be grown as a focal point near an entrance way or planted in a dull corner to add colour. They also make excellent hedging and screening. The red berries attract birds into your garden, adding movement and sound to the natural ambience of your special space.
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.
