Silver van Tol Holly Ilex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol' (f/v)
ABOUT
Ilex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol', commonly known as the Silver variegated English holly, is a distinctive evergreen shrub with striking foliage and berry features. The leaves of this plant are glossy with a deep green color, and they are edged attractively with a creamy-white variegation that creates a silver-effect—hence its name. Each leaf boasts a classic holly shape, which includes several spiky points along the margin; however, the 'Silver van Tol' variety is known for having fewer and softer spines compared to the common English holly. The plant possesses a dense branching structure that provides a lush, bushy appearance, with the contrasting leaf colors adding a bright and decorative element to gardens throughout the year. During the late fall and winter, the Silver variegated English holly is adorned with bright red berries, which are especially showy against the variegated foliage. These berries not only add a splash of brightness during the colder months but also provide a food source for birds and other wildlife. This variety of holly represents an elegant and eye-catching cultivar with its unique variegated leaves and vivid berries. Its evergreen nature ensures that it maintains its visual interest through all seasons, contributing to its popularity in ornamental garden designs.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Aquifoliaceae
Synonyms
Silver Van Tol Holly, Variegated English Holly, Silver Margin Holly
Common names
Ilex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Ilex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol' is English Holly. This plant is considered toxic to humans if ingested. The berries are particularly poisonous and can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain if eaten in large quantities. The leaves may also cause minor discomfort if ingested due to their prickly nature and toxicity. Rarely, more severe symptoms may occur, especially in children. It is advisable to seek medical attention if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
English Holly is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The berries, leaves, and stems of the plant can cause symptoms of poisoning if ingested. These symptoms typically include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. In more serious cases, English Holly ingestion can lead to lethargy, dehydration, and, rarely, more severe reactions that could be life-threatening. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
White
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Ilex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol' adds aesthetic value to gardens with its silver-edged leaves and red berries.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plant provides shelter and food for birds, especially in winter when food is scarce.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and able to tolerate a range of soil conditions.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for diverse climates.
- Privacy Screen: Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent natural barrier for privacy and windbreaks.
- Evergreen: As an evergreen, it retains its foliage year-round, providing constant greenery in the landscape.
- Versatility in Landscaping: It can be used for topiaries, hedges, or as a stand-alone specimen plant, offering flexible design options.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ilex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol', commonly known as English Holly, can be used as a natural barrier or hedge due to its dense growth and prickly leaves which can deter unwanted visitors and animals.
- Due to its striking variegated leaves, English Holly can be used for crafting beautiful winter wreaths and festive decorations during the holiday season.
- English Holly wood is hard and dense, making it suitable for use in the making of chess pieces, walking sticks, and other finely crafted wooden items.
- The bright red berries of the English Holly can be used to make natural dyes for fabrics and artworks, although care must be taken as they are toxic if ingested.
- Since English Holly is evergreen, it provides year-round shelter for birds and small wildlife, which can be particularly important in urban and suburban habitats where natural shelters are scarce.
- Its strong root system can help prevent soil erosion in sloped gardens or areas prone to landslides, while its dense foliage can provide wind protection.
- The wood of English Holly can be used in the craft of inlay work, particularly in fine furniture making, because of its fine grain and capacity to be polished to a smooth finish.
- English Holly can be used as a natural Christmas tree alternative, especially in regions where traditional evergreen trees are scarce or expensive.
- Gardeners can use English Holly for topiary, creating intricate designs and shapes due to its dense foliage and the ability to respond well to pruning.
- The plant can act as an acoustic barrier when planted densely, helping to reduce traffic noise in urban gardens and along roadsides.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Holly is not typically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Holly is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Ilex aquifolium, commonly known as holly, is often believed to offer protection and ward off negative energy. Its spiky leaves were thought to repel evil spirits.
- Eternal Life: Holly is also a symbol of eternal life, as it remains green throughout the year, even in harsh winters, representing resilience and everlasting life.
- Foresight: With its sharp leaves, holly is said to be a symbol of foresight, encouraging people to look ahead and prepare for the future.
- Hope: As a plant that survives the winter, holly represents hope amidst adversity and the promise of renewal in spring.
- Peace and Goodwill: Traditionally associated with Christmas, holly symbolizes peace and goodwill, reflecting the spirit of the holiday season.
WaterThe English Holly 'Silver van Tol' prefers a moist soil but is relatively drought-tolerate once established. In its first growing season, water the plant thoroughly once a week with about 1-2 gallons depending on the size of the plant and the weather conditions, to help it establish a deep root system. After establishment, reduce watering frequency to every two to three weeks, providing 1-2 gallons each time unless there is significant rainfall. During hot and dry periods, check the soil moisture regularly and water as needed to maintain a consistent level of moisture.
LightEnglish Holly 'Silver van Tol' thrives best in partial to full sunlight. It should be planted in a location that receives at least four hours of direct sun daily but can also benefit from a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as too little light can lead to less vigorous growth and fewer berries.
TemperatureEnglish Holly 'Silver van Tol' is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, from about -10°F to 100°F. The ideal temperature range is between 50°F and 80°F. It can withstand occasional cold snaps down to -10°F but should be protected from extreme cold winds which can cause foliage damage.
PruningEnglish Holly 'Silver van Tol' should be pruned to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. The optimal time for pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune annually or as needed to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Avoid heavy pruning as hollies can be slow to recover from harsh cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSilver Queen Holly (common name for Ilex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol') thrives best in a well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. A balanced soil mix to use could be one part garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. The ideal soil pH for this holly variety should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingSilver Queen Holly should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to ensure healthy growth. It is important to increase the pot size incrementally to accommodate the root system. Repotting is best done in the late winter or early spring, before the onset of new growth.
Humidity & MistingSilver Queen Holly prefers moderate to high humidity conditions. It is adaptable but benefits from a humidity level of 40-50% which can be typical of many outdoor environments. To improve humidity for indoor plants, grouping plants together or using a humidity tray can be beneficial.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Silver Queen Holly near a bright window; avoid direct hot sun.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, sheltered from harsh winds and extreme cold.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleIlex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol', commonly known as the Silver Queen Holly, begins its cycle with germination, which occurs when its seeds are sown and environmental conditions are favorable, usually in spring or fall. Following germination, the seedling stage is characterized by the development of cotyledons and true leaves as the plant establishes itself. As it grows into a juvenile plant, it develops a root system and foliage, becoming more resilient to environmental stress. Maturation follows, over several years, as the Silver Queen Holly transitions to an adult plant capable of flowering and producing berries, typically reaching this stage after 4-6 years. The reproductive stage involves the production of small white flowers in late spring, which, when pollinated, lead to the formation of characteristic red berries. Finally, the plant reaches a phase of senescence as it grows older, which may take many years, with diminished growth and productivity before eventually dying.
PropogationPropogation time
Autumn to Winter
Ilex aquifolium 'Silver van Tol', also known as Silver van Tol Holly, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The optimal time for taking cuttings is during the late summer, when the new growth has begun to mature. To execute this method, a gardener would select a healthy branch and cut a segment about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, making sure it includes at least two sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end of the stem is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in well-draining soil and kept moist until roots have established, which may take several weeks. A plastic cover or propagation chamber can help maintain humidity levels conducive to root formation. Semi-hardwood cutting is the most popular method because of its relative ease and effectiveness for holly varieties like Silver van Tol.
