Along the west coast of north america, from california to british columbia, english holly (ilex aquifolium), which is grown commercially, is quickly spreading into native forest habitat, where it … Discover how to grow holly plants with this complete guideâ€care tips, planting advice, and the best proven winners® holly varieties for year-round beauty. There are hundreds of holly species and hybrids hailing from china, japan, south america, europe and north africa, and more than a dozen are native to the continental u. s.