We're offering you a 1 or 2 Holly Argentea Marginata Trees for £17.99, saving you up to 10% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £19.99 (correct as of 27.11.2025).

Holly 'Argentea Marginata' – Evergreen Elegance for Your Garden

Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata', commonly known as Silver-Edged Holly, is a classic evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its striking variegated foliage and robust nature. This variety features glossy, dark green leaves bordered with a bright silver margin, creating vibrant contrast throughout the year.

• Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen shrub/tree
• Mature Height: Typically reaches 3–6m (10–20ft) if left unpruned
• Growth Habit: Dense and upright, ideal for hedging or standalone features
• Foliage Interest: New growth emerges purple-pink before maturing to deep green edged in silver
• Wildlife Value: Dense branches provide shelter for birds; mature female plants may produce red berries (if pollinated by a male holly)

Growing Guide & Care Tips

• Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK (RHS H6); tolerates frost and exposed sites
• Soil Preference: Grows well in most well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, and sand; pH neutral to slightly acidic or alkaline
• Sun/Shade: Prefers full sun to partial shade; variegation is brightest with more sunlight
• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; drought tolerant once mature
• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape or size; responds well to clipping for hedges
• Fertiliser: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring if growth is slow or foliage pale

Design Ideas & Companion Planting

• Create privacy screens, formal hedges, or use as a dramatic specimen plant.
• Pairs beautifully with other evergreens like box (Buxus), yew (Taxus), and flowering shrubs such as camellia and rhododendron.
• Adds structure and winter interest to mixed borders and cottage gardens.

FAQs

• When is the best time to plant Holly 'Argentea Marginata'?
  The best time is autumn or early spring when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• How fast does this holly grow?
  This variety grows at a moderate rate—expect around 20–30cm of new growth per year under good conditions.
• Does it need special care?
  No special care required—just water during dry spells while young and prune annually to shape if desired.