Ilex latifolia

RHS Plant Profile
Tarajo holly
Tarajo holly RHS

Other common names

broad-leaved holly

Shrubs Trees

Species evergreen shrub or tree eventually reaching 7m in height, larger in warm climates. Silvery-grey bark and olive-green young branches bearing leathery, glossy, dark green oblong-shaped leaves with small teeth on the margins. Flowers in late spring are creamy-white followed by red berries on female plants if pollinated by a male holly

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Aquifoliaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Ilex can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs and trees with often spiny leaves, small white flowers (male and female usually on separate plants) and, on female plants, showy berries in autumn
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
China Japan

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn or propagate by hardwood cuttings in January with bottom heat

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

Pruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects, holly leaf miner and young shoots may be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to holly leaf blight, Phytophthora root rot and sometimes honey fungus