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Lustrous spiny dark green leaves and long-lasting bright red berries from autumn to winter. In time this English holly forms a tall conical tree - making a majestic evergreen specimen plant for large gardens or parks. By far the commonest native tree it will thrive in any moderately fertile well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.

Other Features: the berries may cause a mild stomach upset if ingested; to guarantee berries it's necessary to plant a male holly nearby; stems of holly are ideal for floral arrangements.

Garden Care: Plants grown as free-standing specimens require minimal pruning - remove diseased or misplaced branches in spring. Trim plants grown as formal hedges in late summer. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant.