Ilex x altaclerensis 'Camelliifolia'

A favourite plant of the late landscape architect Dame Brenda Colvin, this free berrying, female holly has almost completely smooth, dark green leaves. These leaves take on a lovely burnished-purple hue in the winter months. Established plants have excellent displays of large and colourful red berries in autumn.

A pyramidal large shrub or small tree if planted alone, Ilex x altaclerensis 'Camelliifolia' is probably the finest cultivar of holly to grow as a formal hedge. Usually slow growing initially and not for instant gratification.

• Position: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Well drained or moist, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy.
• Flowering Period: May - June.
• Flower Colour: White
• Rate of Growth: Slow when young then moderate.
• Habit: Ilex x altaclerensis 'Camelliifolia' grows to be a large, densely branching shrub or small tree which can be pruned hard if required.
  • Height: 8 m (26 ft) if grown as a tree but can be pruned to any size.
  • Spread: 5 m (16 ft).

• Notes: Ilex x altaclerensis 'Camelliifolia' tends to be slow growing until established then more vigorous.