Ilex Golden King

2-3 Litre Pot

• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Position: Full sun
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Flowering Period: May-June
• Hardiness: H6
• Eventual Height: 8m
• Eventual Spread: 5m

Ilex Golden King, also known as ‘Golden King Holly’ and holder of the much coveted RHS Award of Garden Merit is a compact, bushy evergreen tree/shrub with oval, broad green leaves with yellow margins. Will bear white flowers and reddish brown berries that ripen to red.

Ilex Golden King, also known as ‘Golden King Holly’ and holder of the much coveted RHS Award of Garden Merit,  is a magnificent variety of holly that is prized for its stunning golden foliage and abundant clusters of bright red berries. This plant is a compact, upright shrub that grows to a height of 8 metres and a spread of 4 metres, making it an ideal choice for small gardens or as a specimen plant in larger landscapes.

Ilex Golden King is best known for its striking yellow-gold leaves that provide year-round interest in the garden. This plant is also valued for its abundant clusters of bright red berries that provide a pop of colour in the Winter months, making it a great choice for bird lovers.

How to care for your Ilex Golden King

• Light:  Prefers full sun to partial shade, but it can also tolerate some shade. Too much shade can result in fewer yellow leaves and less vibrant foliage.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or poorly drained, amend it with compost or sand to improve its drainage.
• Watering: It is drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from regular watering during the growing season. Avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot.
• Fertilising: Fertilise in Spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser. You can also add a layer of compost or mulch around the base of the plant to provide additional nutrients.
• Pruning: Prune in late Winter or early Spring before new growth begins. Pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape and size, and removes any damaged or diseased branches.

By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your Ilex Golden King thrives and provides you with years of bright yellow foliage.