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Ilex aquifolium J. C. Van Tol
Common Name: C. Van Tol English Holly
Ilex aquifolium ‘J. C. van Tol’ is an evergreen holly valued for its glossy dark green foliage with fewer spines than typical English holly, giving it a softer texture while still maintaining classic holly character. It is especially noted for heavy bright red berry production and partial self-fruitfulness, often producing berries without a nearby male pollinator. The dense upright habit provides strong year-round structure.
Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 6–8 ft · Height: 10–15 ft
USDA Zones: 6a–9b
Form: Upright, pyramidal
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
Water: Medium; prefers regular moisture during establishment
Wildlife: Berries attract birds
Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for specimen planting, hedges, screening, and mixed evergreen borders where winter berries and softer foliage texture are desired. Its berry display is especially strong in fall and winter.
Care:
Plant in well-drained acidic soil and protect from severe winter wind in colder areas. Prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is needed. Although partially self-fruitful, berry production improves with a nearby pollinator.
| Plant Type: | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Width: | 6-8' |
| Height: | 10-15' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit: | Yes |
| Zone: | 6–9 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | Not verified |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Birds |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Spring |
| Landscape/Use: | Privacy Screen, Accent Plant, Foundation Plant |
| Shape: | Pyramidal, Upright |
| Soil Type | Acidic, Moist well-drained |
| Flower Color: | White |
| Leaf Color: | Dark Green |
| Fall Color: | Dark Green |