Mature trees can grow up to 15 m tall and live 300 years. The bark is smooth and thin with lots of small brown "warts" and the stems are dark brown.

Dark green, glossy and oval. Younger plants have spiky leaves, but the leaves of older trees are much more likely to be smooth. Leaves in the upper parts of the tree are also likely to be smooth.

Holly provides dense cover and good nesting opportunities for birds, while its deep, dry leaf litter may be used by hedgehogs and small mammals for hibernation.

Soil Conditions

• Acid Soil
• Alkali Soil
• Dry Soil

Suitable Site Conditions

• Shaded Site

Ultimate Tree Height

• 0 - 15m

Growth Rate

• Medium