Holly Hedging (Ilex aquifolium)

Also known as the English Holly, this is a brilliant hedging plant, helping to form a dense prickly barrier and a welcome source of winter food and protection to wildlife. Spiky, glossy evergreen leaves are produced that provide the perfect background to the bright red and orange berries that appear in December through to February, where birds will take the chance to feed on the abundance of fruit. During the spring, pretty white flowers bloom, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies into the garden. Requiring little maintenance, this wonderful shrub lends itself well to shaping and is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit for its reliable performance, stability of colour and form, and good resistance to pests and diseases. It can also be cut and used within arrangements indoors, especially during the festive season. For best results, plant in full or partial shade in moist but well drained soil 60cm apart. 25-30cm plants supplied in 9cm pots.