Description

American Holly is Popular as a Privacy Hedge

The American Holly is also known as the White Holly or Christmas Holly.  American Holly can be grown as a small tree or shrub and is popularly used as a privacy hedge, noise barrier, or ornamental specimen. It keeps its natural pyramidal shape & is one of the few hollies that keeps its branching and foliage from top to bottom.

American Holly grows best in full sun to part shade. In warmer climates, avoid planting where it gets too much direct late afternoon sun in the summer. American Holly care is pretty easy. Prune in winter if needed. Although it can handle heavy pruning, just light trimming of overgrown or dead branches is recommended. It has almost no known pest or disease problems.

When looking at American Holly shrubs for sale, consider the growth rate to be moderate. American Hollies do not grow as fast as some other popular Holly trees, such as the Nellie Stevens. Consider buying at least a 3-gallon container size.

The key to early growth is how you plant your American Holly trees. Dig your planting hole twice as wide as the container and mix in organic soil or compost. You want a mix of about 50% soil you dug out with 50% organic soil.  This gives the roots the best chance to adapt & expand, allowing for new growth above ground faster.

American Holly is considered deer-resistant, not deer-proof. Deer don’t like the leaves but if desperate, they could nibble on them.

Mature Height	15-20 feet
Mature Width	12-15 feet
Spacing	10 feet
Sunlight	Full – Partial
Growth rate	Moderate
Soil Conditions	Adaptable
Drought Tolerance	Good
Grow Zones	6 to 9
Botanical Name	Ilex opaca

USDA Hardiness Zones 6 to 9

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the American Holly live?

If cared for properly in the right conditions an American Holly can live up to 100 years or more.

Does the American Holly drop their leaves?

No. The American Holly is a broadleaf evergreen, it will retain its leaves through the winter.

Is the American Holly a slow grower?

The American Holly is considered a moderate grower, growing 12-24 inches a year.

Is the American Holly good for wildlife?

Yes! Deer and squirrels love the berries, and it is an important source of food for a large number of bird species.

 

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