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Hollies: Variety and Care

Jun 7, 2024 | Variety Information- Shrubs

Hollies are one of the most valuable and versatile plants you can add to a Richmond landscape. Whether you’re looking for privacy, structure, or year-round greenery, hollies deliver dependable performance with relatively low maintenance.

From evergreen hedges to berry-filled winter interest, hollies are a go-to solution for both homeowners and landscape designers across Central Virginia.

Holly Needlepoint Up close

What Are Hollies & How Are They Used in the Landscape?

Hollies (genus Ilex) include both evergreen and deciduous shrubs and trees known for their dense growth, glossy foliage, and seasonal berries.

Common Landscape Uses for Hollies

  • Privacy Screens & Hedges- Dense growth makes hollies ideal for natural fencing and blocking views
  • Foundation Plantings- Clean, structured growth works well around homes and buildings
  • Specimen Plants & Focal Points- Larger varieties like Nellie Stevens or American Holly create strong visual anchors
  • Winter Interest- Deciduous hollies provide bright red or orange berries after leaves drop
  • Wildlife Support- Birds rely on holly berries for winter food and use branches for shelter

Benefits of Planting Hollies in Richmond, Virginia

Hollies are especially well-suited to the Richmond climate and soil conditions.

Why They Thrive Here:

  • Heat & Humidity Tolerant
    Handles Richmond’s hot, humid summers better than many shrubs
  • Evergreen Coverage Year-Round
    Keeps landscapes looking full even in winter
  • Deer Resistant
    A major advantage in many Central Virginia neighborhoods
  • Adaptable to Clay Soils
    With proper planting, hollies perform well in our native soils
  • Low Maintenance Once Established
    Minimal pruning and watering compared to other hedge options

Sun Requirement

  • Most hollies prefer Full Sun to Part Sun (4–6+ hours daily)
  • Some varieties, like American Holly, tolerate Part Shade to Shade

Richmond Tip:

Providing some afternoon shade can help reduce stress during peak summer heat.

Watering Requirement

  • New plants:
    Water deeply 2–3 times per week during the first growing season
  • Established hollies:
    Water during dry periods (about once per week if rainfall is limited)
  • Prefer well-drained soil, but some varieties tolerate moisture

    Holly Fertilizing & Pruning Guide

    Fertilizing Hollies

    • Apply fertilizer in early spring
    • Use a slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving plants
    • We recommend Espoma Holly-tone for the best results

    Optional: A second light feeding in late spring if needed
    Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall

    Pruning & Maintenance

    Hollies are easy to maintain and respond well to pruning.

    • Best time to prune: Late winter to early spring
    • Light trimming can be done during the growing season
    • Remove:
      • Dead or damaged branches
      • Crossing or crowded growth

    For hedges, regular shaping encourages dense, full growth.

    Featured Hydrangea Varieties (Shop Available Plants Below)

    Holly Care Tips for Virginia Gardens

    • Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
    • Amend clay soil with organic matter for better drainage
    • Maintain slightly acidic soil for optimal growth
    • Protect young plants with mulch during winter

    Richmond’s climate is ideal for hollies, making them one of the most reliable landscape investments

    Evergreen Hollies

    (Best for Hedges & Structure)

      Botanical Name: Ilex crenata and related species
      Evergreen hollies are commonly used for privacy, hedges, and foundation plantings.

      Popular Varieties:

      • Blue Maid – 8–10′ T x 6–8′ W
      • Blue Prince – 8–10′ T x 6–8′ W
      • Carissa – 3–4′ T x 4–6′ W
      • China Boy – 3–4′ T x 4–6′ W
      • China Girl – 8–10′ T x 6–8′ W
      • Compacta – 6′ T x 6′ W (tolerates moist conditions)
      • Dwarf Burford – 8–10′ T x 4–6′ W
      • Helleri – 2–4′ T x 3–5′ W
      • Hoogendorn – 2′ T x 2–3′ W
      • Inkberry – 4–5′ T x 4–5′ W
      • Needlepoint – 10–15′ T x 10–12′ W
      • Sky Pencil – 6–10′ T x 2–4′ W (great vertical accent)
      • Soft Touch – 2–3′ T x 2–3′ W
      • Steeds – 8–10′ T x 3–4′ W (ideal for narrow hedges)
      • Yaupon – 2–3′ T x 2–3′ W

      Sun: Full Sun to Part Sun

       

      Deciduous Hollies

      (Best for Winter Berries)

        Botanical Name: Ilex decidua
        These lose their leaves but produce vibrant berries in fall and winter.

        Popular Varieties:

        • Orange Goblin – 3–4′ T x 3–4′ W
        • Red Goblin – 3–4′ T x 3–4′ W
        • Sparkleberry – 8–10′ T x 8′ W
        • Winter Gold – 8′ T x 8′ W
        • Winter Red – 8′ T x 8′ W

        Sun: Full Sun to Part Sun

         

        Holly Trees

        (Best for Privacy & Focal Points)

        • American Holly – 20–30′ T x 15–20′ W
          • Best for shade-tolerant evergreen structure
        • Nellie Stevens Holly – 20′ T x 10′ W
          • Fast-growing, excellent for privacy screens
        • Oakland Holly – 15–20′ T x 12–15′ W
          • Unique foliage with strong visual appeal

        Sun: Full Sun to Part Sun (American tolerates more shade)

         

        Visit Us to Shop Hollies in Person

        Looking to add hollies to your landscape this season? Visit our Garden Center to explore our full selection of hollies suited for Richmond-area gardens. Our team can help you choose the right variety for your space, sun exposure, and color goals.

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