Common Holly - Ilex aquifolium JC Van Tol

The Ilex aquifolium 'JC Van Tol' or Common Holly is a bush with a conical habit, shiny dark green foliage and numerous berries from October to March. It remains beautiful, even in winter when other plants are dormant.

Originally from Europe, the Ilex aquifolium 'JC Van Tol' is widely used for hedges, but also for specimens, it has a conical and upright habit, 6 to 10m (19.7 - 32.8ft) in height and 1 to 2m (3.3 - 6.6ft) in width. Its white flowers will produce small spherical berries from October to March, bright red, 4 to 6mm (0.2 - 0.2in) in diameter, and very decorative, whether the bush is alone or in hedges. It is also used as Christmas decoration. Its shiny dark green foliage is adorned with thorns. Its purplish stems are sparse and loose.
Evergreen, down to -20°C (-4°F), the Ilex aquifolium 'JC Van Tol' thrives in sunny or semi-shady conditions. Protect it from cold winds. Plant it in neutral, humus-bearing, moist and light soil.

As a standalone topiary, it will attract attention. It should be planted in an open position for regular growth on all sides. It can also be used for low hedges, beds, pots and rockeries. Use it in Zen gardens alongside bamboos, Japanese maples, camellias...