Ilex aquifolium ‘Aurifodina’

Position: Full sun to light shade

Flowering period: Summer (insignificant)

Soil: Moist, well drained

Eventual Height: 8m

Eventual Spread: 3m

Hardiness: 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b

Ilex aquifolium ‘Aurifodina’, commonly known as Holly ‘Aurifodina’, is a slow growing evergreen shrub with a conical habit. The species, Ilex aquifolium, is native to western and southern Europe (including the UK), northwest Africa and southwest Asia. In its native habitat, the species, is found as an understory tree or shrub in Oak and Beech woodlands. The leaves of Ilex aquifolium ‘Aurifodina’ are mid green, edged with golden margins and are prickly. Its flowers are insignificant and attractive to pollinating insects, including bees. These are followed by berries which turn red during late autumn to early winter. This shrub provides good sheltering habitat for birds. Ilex aquifolium ‘Aurifodina’ may be used as an evergreen specimen shrub or as a hedging species. Necessary pruning should be carried out in late spring to early summer.