Ilex × altaclerensis ‘Wilsonii’ Wilson holly

Wilson holly at Rains. Sairus Patel, 2023

English holly produces vigorous hybrids with I. perado from Macaronesia, first raised in Highclere, England, which gives the hybrid its species name altaclerensis. ‘Wilsonii’ is the most popular selection locally; four large shrubs can be seen on the west side of Willis Lounge at Rains. The leathery, glossy leaves are about 4 inches long and not as contorted or spiny as those of English holly. Wilson holly is a female clone; the red berries are large and borne profusely.