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Holly: What You Need To Know | Hedging UK

Holly (Ilex aquifolium) is a classic evergreen shrub known for its glossy, spiny leaves and vibrant red berries. A traditional British native, it creates a dense, wildlife-friendly hedge with year-round interest and strong architectural form.

Read on for more information about using Holly for hedges, or explore our range of Holly hedging plants for sale.

Holly Description:

Growth Habit:

Holly grows slowly but steadily, forming a dense, upright hedge with excellent privacy and security. It can be clipped to shape or left more natural for a wild, cottage-garden feel.

Foliage:

The leaves are deep green, glossy, and typically have spiny edges, although some mature leaves may be smoother. The foliage provides year-round coverage, ideal for screening and shelter.

Flowers and Fruits:

Small white flowers appear in late spring, followed by bright red berries in autumn and winter, only on female plants and only if a male is nearby for pollination. These berries are a key food source for birds.

Sunlight and Soil Requirements:

Holly is very adaptable—happy in sun or full shade, and grows well in clay, loam, sand, or chalk soils, as long as they are not waterlogged.

Hedge Pruning:

These hedges are easy to maintain with pruning in late spring or summer. It can be shaped formally or left informal. It responds well to cutting and can be kept tidy or rejuvenated when needed.

Maintenance:

Holly is a low-maintenance hedge once established. Water during dry spells in the first couple of years and mulch in spring to conserve moisture.

Hardiness:

This species is fully hardy across the UK, tolerating frost, snow, wind, coastal exposure, and urban pollution.

Toxicity:

Holly berries are toxic to humans and pets if eaten in quantity. However, their bitter taste makes accidental ingestion rare. The spiny leaves also help deter intruders.

Where is the Best Place to Plant a Holly Hedge?

Light Requirements:
Tolerates full sun to deep shade, though berry production is best in sun or dappled shade.

Soil Type:
Thrives in most well-drained soils, including acidic, neutral or slightly alkaline.

Space and Size:
Ideal for boundary hedging, rural screens, or security planting.

Protection from Winds:
Very wind-tolerant, including coastal areas.

Accessibility:
Ensure access for annual pruning, especially if grown formally.

What Time of Year Do You Plant Holly?

Plant in autumn (October–December) or spring (February–April) while the soil is still warm and moist.

  • Bare root or root ball plants: Best between November and March.

  • Container-grown plants: Can be planted year-round with watering in dry weather.

How Far Apart to Plant Holly for a Hedge?

  • Single row: Plant 40–60cm apart

  • Double row (staggered): Rows 45cm apart, with plants 60cm apart along each row

Closer spacing encourages quicker coverage.

How Do I Plant Holly?

  • Dig a trench or holes wide enough for the rootball

  • Improve poor soil with organic matter

  • Plant to the same depth as previously grown

  • Firm in well and water thoroughly

  • Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Watch our YouTube Video for a more detailed description

How Far to Plant Holly from a Fence?

Allow at least 45–60 cm between the hedge and any fence, wall, or structure to allow for airflow and easy maintenance access.

How Fast Does Holly Grow?

This species is a slow to moderate grower, typically gaining 20–30cm (8–12 inches) per year. Patience pays off with a robust, long-lived hedge.

How Big Does Holly Get?

Left untrimmed, they can grow to 6–8 metres (20–26 feet) tall. However, as a hedge, it is usually maintained at 1.5–3 metres (5–10 feet) tall.

Is Holly Hardy in the UK?

Yes—it is extremely hardy, coping with frost, snow, salt-laden air, and urban conditions across the UK.

Can You Keep Holly Small?

Yes. This type of hedge responds well to trimming and can be kept low (even under 1 metre) with regular pruning. It also makes a good topiary plant if desired.

Can Holly Be Cut Back Hard?

Yes—They can be renovated by cutting back hard, even into older wood. It may be slow to reshoot, but will usually recover with care and time.

How Do You Thicken a Holly Hedge?

To create a denser hedge:

  • Prune lightly and regularly to encourage bushiness

  • Feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring

  • Avoid over-pruning the same spot repeatedly

  • Water during prolonged dry periods

Which is Better: Holly or Yew?

  • Holly offers spiny leaves and berries, making it excellent for security and wildlife value

  • Yew is more formal and faster to establish, especially for clipped hedges

Choose Holly for a traditional, secure, evergreen hedge that offers winter interest and attracts wildlife.

Do Holly Hedges Stay Green All Year?

Yes—these hedges are evergreen and retain their foliage year-round, providing consistent structure and colour even in the depths of winter.

Conclusion

Holly (Ilex aquifolium) makes a timeless, tough, and attractive hedge. With its glossy green leaves and red berries, it adds visual appeal, security, and wildlife value to gardens and landscapes throughout the year.