Ilex can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs and trees with often spiny leaves, small white flowers (male and female usually on separate plants) and, on female plants, showy berries in autumn. Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Short description
Slow-growing evergreen, dense, but spreading shrub or small tree eventually reaching a height of 4m. Its small, glossy, ovate to rounded leaves up to 2cm long emerge pale green before maturing to dark green. Small white flowers are borne in spring and may be followed by small, glossy, black berries if pollinated by a male Japanese holly plant
