Nellie R. Stevens Holly

About this plant

Ilex x 'Nellie R. Stevens' Holly is a widely cherished hybrid holly known for its dense, pyramidal form and glossy, dark green leaves that provide year-round interest. This vigorous evergreen combines the best traits of its parent species, Ilex cornuta and Ilex aquifolium, resulting in a hardy shrub that is both heat and cold tolerant, making it suitable for a variety of landscapes. Its spiny, leathery foliage resists deer browsing, while female plants produce bright red berries in winter, offering valuable food for birds and seasonal color. Developed in the mid-20th century, 'Nellie R. Stevens' has become a staple in foundation plantings, hedge screens, and privacy barriers due to its rapid growth and low maintenance requirements. Its versatility and classic holly appearance have earned it recognition from horticultural societies and it remains a favorite among landscapers and gardeners

Plant details

Mature height

25 ft.

Mature width

15 ft.

Growth rate

Fast

USDA zones

6-9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Water needs

High

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Spacing

6 ft.

Bloom season

Mid-Spring (April-May)