Common Holly


Photo: Fleming's Nurseries		Common Holly Ilex aquafolium Berried Plants Tasmania Region

	This evergreen shrub or small tree is slow growing when young but can reach a massive 20 m at maturity. Glossy, darkgreen leaves are spiny and sharply toothed. Bright-red winter berries occur only after pollination between male and female plants.

HOW IT SPREADS Birds and small mammals ingest berries and the seed is dispersed. Plants can spread by suckering and layering.

Seedlings and maturing plants are difficult and costly to remove. While red berried plants add interest and texture to the garden, it is best to avoid these species that so readily naturalise in bushland.

Alternative Plants


Photo: Lorna Rose		Fragrant Olive, Holly Osmanthus Osmanthus heterophyllus Trees and Shrubs

	This large shrub is similar in looks to holly, with mid-green, finely toothed leaves and small white flowers that are highly scented in the evening Osmanthus will grow to 4 m and will grow well in shady areas.

Photo: Habitat Plants		Native Hazel Pomaderris apetala Trees and Shrubs

	A shrub or small tree to 15 m, this Tasmanian native is common in the under-storey of forests in many parts of the lowlands. Often associated with watercourses, it can sometimes occur in dry places. In cultivation they are generally hardy and appreciate adequate drainage and full-sun to part-shade. They have dark green leaves with toothed edges and grayish hairs on the underside. Large cream heads of flowers in spring.

Photo: Lorna Rose		Sweet Viburnum Viburnum odoratissimum Trees and Shrubs

	Evergreen, fast-growing shrub or small tree to 6 m. Leaves are large, shiny and leathery. Flowers are white, star-shaped and fragrant in clusters followed by bright red fruit. Suitable as an informal hedge or screen. Grows in full-sun to semi-shade and can be clipped or pruned. Used as cut foliage for flower arrangements and has a long vase life.