Ilex aquifolium (Common Holly)
Thick leaves, spiniest on lower branches. Shiny dark green.
This modest example is the only obvious Holly found inside Toll Wood - found near the western margin. On balance, this species is of low value in this woodland scene.
Common Holly is one of the most recognisable evergreen trees in our countryside. In favourable conditions they can grow to become a large, conical tree with dense cover for birds and mammals throughout the year. But the congested shade and dry conditions of Toll Wood are unfavourable.
Biodiversity value: LOW
In late spring, flowers supply pollen and nectar. They bear distinctive red berries that are a food source for birds in winter months.
Only a few few chewers and sucking insects make use of holly - maybe because of the bitter alkaloid, ilicin. However, there are some species that depend on holly - holly blue butterfly, yellow-barred brindle and double-striped pug. Lower, more prickly parts of holly trees provide well protected nesting sites.
Historically, younger upper-branches (less prickly) were lopped for animal feed in winter. Where this practice was common, coppicing was used to generate a supply of young growth for nutritional fodder.
Hollies support very few epiphytic lichens, mosses, etc.
Poor for wood decay fungi, wood decay invertebrates, and leaf litter (very slow to break down). Leaf litter can provide cover for over-wintering mammals. As an evergreen, it sheds its leaves all year.
Propagation Options (see our summary of general techniques)
(1) Seed Collection - December-February - remove the flesh and sow immediately into pots. Germination takes place in 1-3 years. Be patient! Or use hardwood cuttings.
(2) Hardwood Cuttings taken in the Autumn are the most successful method.
Cuttings 15-20cm long, pencil thick, first year growth. Use rooting hormone. See our summary of cutting techniques.
Ground Layering creates exact replicas of the parent tree (cloning). Choose a low branch, lightly damage the surface/bark, peg into mois peaty soil. Leave to root for 1-2 years. This retains any genetic features that appear important.
