Ilex, more commonly known as Holly is a large group of evergreen shrubs made famous for their red winter berries and colourful, yet spiny foliage. Hollies are available in many shapes, sizes and leaf colours and are an excellent evergreen shrub or tree for most larger gardens.
Hollies generally prefer a neutral to acidic soil, that is moderately fertile and well drained. While green-leaved Hollies will tolerate some shade, variegated varieties do much better in full sun. As they are evergreen and never truly dormant, Hollies do benefit from some winter protection against extreme cold and drying winds.