10 Seeds English Holly Ilex aquifolium Evergreen Ornamental Tree Shrub

English Holly (Ilex aquifolium) is a classic evergreen tree or shrub admired for its glossy, spiny green leaves and bright red berries on female plants when a male pollinator is nearby. It brings year-round structure and winter interest to gardens, hedges, and woodland plantings, and its cut branches are a longtime favorite for seasonal decorating. This listing offers 10 seeds for growers looking to cultivate this traditional holly from seed.
Holly grows slowly at first, developing into a dense, upright plant that responds well to pruning and can be shaped into hedges or specimen shrubs. It prefers cool, moist, well-drained soil and tolerates partial shade, making it a versatile choice for borders, foundation plantings, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. Seeds require patience, as germination can be slow and erratic without cold stratification.
Species: Ilex aquifolium
Type: Evergreen tree or shrub
Plant_Habit: Upright, dense, branching
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic
Zones: 5 to 9
Germination: Slow and erratic; cold stratification recommended
Sowing: Sow in fall or stratify before spring sowing
Spacing: 5 to 10 feet apart
Notes: Female plants produce red berries when a male pollinator is present