Silver-margined holly

A most attractively variegated form of the native holly, Ilex aquifolium Argentea Marginata is a medium-sized, evergreen tree or large shrub of bushy, conical habit, with smooth, grey bark. The spiny leaves are a deep, shiny green, edged with cream and flushed pink when young. It is a female cultivar, bearing small, off-white flowers in early summer, which, if pollinated by those of a male cultivar, are followed by bright red berries, which look wonderful against the variegated foliage. Excellent as a specimen and as hedging, and tolerates urban pollution. Good for pollinators, silver-margined holly holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates exposure, including coastal exposure
Soil: Any well drained soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: All year, particularly autumn and early winter
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 18 (6m)Spread: 18 (6m)but very slow growing and can be pruned to stay at any height