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Key characteristics

Family: Aquifoliaceae
Height: 15 to 20 feet
Width: 10 to 12 feet
Flower color: White (inconspicuous)
Foliage color: Dark green with creamy-yellow margins
Bloom time: Spring
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Requires regular watering
Maintenance: Low; regular pruning may be required for shape
Growing zone: USDA zones 6 to 9
Wildlife: Red berries attract birds, especially in winter

Shrubs

Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata'

Variegated English Holly

Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata' is a popular variegated variety of English holly, known for its attractive green leaves with creamy white or silver margins. This evergreen shrub is particularly valued for its ornamental foliage, which holds its color year-round. In late spring to early summer, it produces small, inconspicuous white flowers, which later give way to bright red berries, providing seasonal interest and a food source for birds.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Requires regular watering

Bloom time

Spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Hedging & Privacy
Bird Gardens
Winter Interest

Companion plants

Hebe · Flowering quince · Crocus · Matilija poppy · Mallow · Sweet William

Design tip

Use ‘Argentea Marginata’ where its evergreen variegated foliage can provide year-round structure and color. The creamy-edged leaves create a strong backdrop throughout the seasons, while bright red berries add a prominent accent in fall and winter.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)