Companion Planting with Ilex – Hollies
Ilex
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Ilex, commonly known as hollies, are evergreen or deciduous shrubs or trees known for their attractive foliage, red or black berries, and variety of shapes and sizes. When choosing companion plants for hollies, consider plants that can provide contrasting textures, colors, and blooming times, as well as those that thrive in similar conditions. Here are some suggestions for plants to pair with hollies:
Rhododendron and Azalea: Rhododendrons and azaleas are both evergreen and deciduous flowering shrubs that can provide a stunning display of spring blooms. They prefer slightly acidic soil, similar to hollies, and can create a beautiful woodland garden when planted together.
Camellia: Camellia is an evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and large, showy flowers in shades of white, pink, and red. They also prefer acidic soil and thrive in similar conditions as hollies, making them an excellent companion for a mixed border.
Pieris (Andromeda): Pieris is an evergreen shrub with attractive, glossy foliage and clusters of bell-shaped flowers in spring. Like hollies, they prefer acidic soil and partial shade, making them a suitable companion.
Ferns: Ferns provide a delicate, feathery texture that contrasts nicely with the bold leaves and berries of hollies. Suitable fern varieties for planting with hollies include Lady Fern, Japanese Painted Fern, and Maidenhair Fern.
Hydrangea: Hydrangeas are flowering shrubs with large, showy blooms in various colors, shapes, and sizes. They can tolerate partial shade and provide a beautiful contrast to holly foliage and berries.
Hosta (Plantain Lily): Hostas are shade-loving perennials with lush, often variegated foliage that provide an excellent contrast to the evergreen leaves of hollies. They also offer various foliage colors and sizes to choose from.
Helleborus (Lenten Rose): Helleborus is a shade-loving perennial with attractive evergreen foliage and nodding, cup-shaped flowers in late winter to early spring. They make an excellent companion for hollies in shady spots.
Pachysandra (Japanese Spurge): Pachysandra is a low-growing, evergreen groundcover that thrives in shade and provides a lush, green carpet underneath holly shrubs.
Heuchera (Coral Bells): Heuchera is a perennial with colorful, evergreen foliage that provides a beautiful contrast to holly leaves. They also have delicate flowers that rise above the foliage in the summer.
When planting these companions, consider the specific light, moisture, and soil requirements of each plant to ensure that they all thrive together. Hollies typically prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil and full sun to partial shade, so choose companion plants that will suit these conditions. Also, consider the mature size of your holly variety and companion plants to allow for adequate space and prevent overcrowding.
Now you know What to plant with Ilex – Hollies
