How big do holly bushes get?
Some holly bushes grow to about 6 feet tall, while others can reach 50 feet and higher! Make sure you choose a plant that’s the right size for your landscape — and that will thrive in your climate. The quintessential Christmas variety, for example, is English holly, which grows best in Zone 6.
How to landscape with holly bushes?
What Works Well With Holly Bushes in a Landscaping Design?
- Clematis x durandii Hybrid. Although clematis is primarily a vining plant, the hybrid Clematis x durandii makes an excellent ground cover that is not aggressive.
- Gold Forsythia. ...
- Burning Bush. ...
What bushes have red berries?
Bushes or Shrubs With Red Berries
- Cotoneaster. The Cotoneaster genus, a member of the rose family, has between 70 and 300 species, most of which bear bright red berries and are renowned for their ornamental uses.
- American Winterberry. American winterberry (Ilex verticillata) is a red berry-producing North American holly. ...
- Hobblebush. ...
- Chokeberry. ...
- Barberry. ...
Do all holly bushes have berries?
No, all holly bushes do not have berries. Hollies are dioecious, meaning that they need male and female plants in order to produce seeds, which are what berries are. There are also a few rare varieties of holly that do not have berries on either the male or female shrubs.
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How many different kinds of holly are there?
Common hollyJapanese hollyYaupon hollyAmerican HollyWinterberryYerba mateHolly/Lower classifications
What is the difference between English holly and American Holly?
English holly (I. aquifolium) — This species is smaller than the American holly, topping out at around 35 feet. It has glossy, spiny leaves as opposed to the larger, duller, non-glossy foliage of the American holly. The leaves on both species have very sharp thorn-like spines on their margins.
Are there different types of holly plants?
Holly trees and shrubs fall within the Ilex genus of plants—the only genus of the Aquifoliaceae family. 1 There are about 480 deciduous and evergreen species within this genus, including trees, shrubs, and climbing lianas. There are native holly plants spread throughout the tropical and temperate regions of the world.
Is there a difference between a holly tree and a holly bush?
Holly trees can grow between 30 and 80 ft. (10 – 24 m) tall. However, holly bushes typically grow up to 6 ft. (1.8 m) tall and are multi-stemmed plants.
What is the hardiest holly?
4 days agoIf you are looking for zone 5 holly shrubs in this group, consider the blue holly cultivars 'Blue Prince' and 'Blue Princess'. They are the most cold hardy of the series. Other Meserve hybrids that can serve the landscape well include China Boy and China Girl.
What is the best holly plant?
The ultra-prickly cultivars, such as Ferox Argentea, are deservedly popular. But my own best-in-garden holly must be Ilex aquifolium Pendula, the weeping form of our common holly, which should be bought, if possible, as a specimen tree, grafted 10ft high.
Which holly bush grows the fastest?
Nellie Stevens hollyThe fastest growing holly tree is the Nellie Stevens holly. As mentioned, the Nellie Stevens Holly grows about 3 feet per year. Compared to the American Holly and the Dragon Lady Holly, which both usually only grow a few inches each year, the Nellie Stevens holly grows very quickly.
Which holly is best for hedge?
Holly Varieties for Hedges and Screens Tight growers such as Japanese hollies and Meserve hollies (also known as blue hollies) make good hedges, as do English hollies, whose spiny leaves provide a useful barrier. For a thick, dense hedge, prune regularly.
Do you need 2 holly bushes to get berries?
Most hollies, Ilex spp., whether evergreen or deciduous, have male and female flowers on separate plants: hollies are dioecious. To obtain fruit set, the female requires a compatible male of the same or related species for proper pollination.
Can you cut holly bushes back?
Simply prune off new growth or up to ⅓ of the overall plant. Never prune the lower branches shorter than the upper branches. The lower branches won't have good light penetration and your holly bush will suffer. For size control or invigorating an older overgrown plant, severe pruning can be implemented.
What is the best time of year to trim holly bushes?
winterSo for best outcome and to ensure your hollies aren't unduly stressed, wait until late winter or early spring — just as the plant breaks dormancy — before you do any major downsizing. By waiting till your hollies are about to begin active growth, you'll also avoid several months of a skeleton appearance.
What kind of holly grows tall?
Inkberry (Ilex glabra) This species has an upright, rounded form, growing to as much as 8 feet tall.
How can you tell an American holly?
American Holly (Ilex opaca) It has a pyramid shape. The leaves are simple, alternate, oblong shaped, and two to four inches long. They usually have smooth, leathery upper surfaces. The leaf margin has several stiff, thorny spines and the tip is sharply pointed.
Can you eat American holly fruit?
Boughs of holly are okay, but berries are not! Holly leaves, branches and berries are beautiful holiday decorations, but the berries are poisonous to people and pets. Swallowing holly berries can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and drowsiness.
How can you tell the difference between hollies?
Look at the color of the leaves. English holly has a deep green color and glossy finish. American holly leaves are a lighter, yellow-green with a dull sheen. Variegated leaves, ever popular during the holidays, indicate English holly.
What does an English holly tree look like?
This tall, pyramidal, evergreen tree may be grown as a large shrub. Its evergreen, spiny foliage is leathery and glossy. Insignificant, though fragrant, flowers bloom in spring followed by red, orange, or yellow drupes that attract birds. Many cultivars are available.
What is the name of the holly that has green leaves?
The berries are not as bright as those on other species, though they still add color during wintertime. This plant may also be known as Tarajo holly, or just Tarajo .
What is the name of the tree that is similar to American Holly?
American holly is often used as a substitute for English holly ( Ilex aquifolium) in Christmas decorations where the latter does not grow well. They are similar in appearance with spiny-toothed leaves and an abundance of red berries. This plant has a number of other common names, including hummock holly, dune holly, and scrub holly. In 1939, American holly was named as the state tree of Delaware .
What is a holly leaf?
The green leaves on this holly species are indeed lustrous. The foliage is used in China to brew a tea. The berries are not as bright as those on other species, though they still add color during wintertime. This plant may also be known as Tarajo holly, or just Tarajo .
What shrubs are good for winter?
The common winterberry shrub will provide a vibrant pop of color in your winter landscape, thanks to the abundance of scarlet berries. This species does well in wet areas and its native habitats are places like bogs or swamps. It may produce suckers and spread through your yard.
Why is the Japanese holly called the box leaf holly?
The alternative common name box-leaved holly is sometimes used for Japanese holly because the leaves look like those of boxwood shrubs. The fruit produced is black and not as distinct as others in the genus. Japanese holly is considered to be invasive in some area. 3
What is the state tree of Delaware?
In 1939, American holly was named as the state tree of Delaware . If you only have room for one American holly tree, look for the 'Croonenburg' variety. It is able to pollinate itself because it has male and female flowers on the same plant. If you prefer yellow fruit, choose the 'Canary' variety.
What is the red fruit on a catberry?
Like the long-stalked holly, the red fruit is found at the end of long stems called peduncles. The fruit is a source of food for migratory birds. This plant is also known by alternative common names: mountain holly.
What are the different types of holly?
Main Ornamental Holly Types. There are 4 main types of ornamental hollies: Blue Holly - Ilex meserveae - these have the typical holly shaped leaves and are evergreen shrubs. Most often, these shrubs require a male and a female plant to produce berries on the female plants. These are also native to North America.
How tall does Longstalked Holly grow?
Native to China, Japan, and Taiwan, within hardiness zones 5 to 8, reaching heights of 10 to 30 feet. Needs a male Ilex pedunculosa for the female to set fruit.
What is the name of the holly that makes you vomit?
Interesting to note. While all holly berries are poisonous and often cause vomiting, the fruit from the Yaupon holly, I. vomitoria, was used by Native Americans in a ceremonial drink. It would make them vomit, leading to the species name, vomitoria, and common name, emetic holl y. Native to the southeastern U.S., within hardiness zones 7 to 9, and reaching heights of 4 to 30 feet. Area male pollinators such as either Ilex opaca, American holly or Ilex decidua, possumhaw holly typically abound to pollinator female flowers. In the absence of that, Ilex 'Will Fleming' is a male plant.
How to tell the difference between holly and boxwood?
To tell the difference between holly shrubs and boxwood shrubs, note that hollies have alternative leaves, occurring one at a time on alternating sides of a branch, while boxwood has opposite leaves. Native to China, Korea, and Japan, within hardiness zones 5 to 8, and reaching heights of 3 to 10 feet.
What is a Holly genius?
The holly genius consists of 480 evergreen and deciduous species, including trees, shrubs, and long-stemmed, woody vines that climb up to a shrub or tree canopy to reach the light.
How tall is a myrtle holly tree?
The leaves on this tree are like those of the myrtle shrub, Myrtus communis, inspiring the species and common names including, myrtle dahoon, myrtle holly, and myrtleleaf holly. Native to the southeastern U.S., within hardiness zones 7 to 10, and reading heights of 15 to 25 feet, and reaching up to a height of 40 feet.
Where do inkberry hollies grow?
Inkberry Holly - Ilex glabra - this is an evergreen species found native to Europe and North America. Most produce black fruit, but some can produce white fruit. The leaves do not have spines. For more detailed information about different species and types of hollies, keep reading below.
1. American Holly Tree
American Holly Tree is an evergreen, ornamental tree that can reach an incredible height from 25 feet up to over 60 feet, and its spread goes anywhere from 18 to 40 feet. Female plants are known for their bright red berries. American Holly Trees are slow-growing, and although they do perform well in the shade, they grow the best in partial sun.
2. English Holly Tree
The English Holly Tree is most common in Europe, although it can be found in other parts of the world. It is mainly categorized as a shrub or a dwarf tree, with a height of 15 to 35 feet. English Holly Tree spread reaches around 15 feet, while the spiky leaves and red berries add to its charm.
3. Chinese Holly Tree
The Chinese Holly Tree is another excellent species of Holly Trees that can be grown as a small tree or a larger shrub. Their height and spread can grow around 15 feet, making them low maintenance. They are also slow-growing, and it’s best to keep them in full sun so that they can advance better.
4. Japanese Holly Tree
The Japanese Holly Tree is an undemanding shrub native to Japan and Asia. This type of Holly Tree is very small, and it’s only 3 to 10 feet wide and high. They can be fast-growing, but they require acidic soil, and you need to place them in full or partial sun.
5. Carolina Holly Tree
Carolina Holly Tree, also known as sandy holly, is a species that has native American heritage. It also falls into the bush category, and it grows the best in sandy areas. Their height reaches up to 20 feet, and it’s a decorative plant with purple twigs and simple, wide leaves.
6. Hawaiian Holly Tree
Hawaiian Holly Tree, as the name says it, comes from Hawaii. This attractive plant has glossy, burgundy leaves with red berries when blooming. It requires more maintenance than most other hollies because it needs to be trimmed regularly. It’s used as a house plant, and it can succeed outside in the partial shade.
7. Dahoon Holly Tree
Dahoon Holly Tree is a hardy holly type that can thrive in any surroundings. The tree is easy to maintain, and it will be a great decorative piece for months. This evergreen holly is perfect for any landscape, with a height of 40 feet and a spread of 12 to 15 feet, providing ideal shade in the summer.
How tall does a yaupon holly grow?
A dwarf variety of yaupon holly is the ‘Nana’ cultivar which has compact, rounded growth. The dense evergreen shrub grows up to 5 ft. (1.5 m) tall and 6 ft. (1.8 m) spread and is a popular landscape plant that can be used for topiary.
What is the most common deciduous holly plant?
The most common deciduous holly plant is the native winterberry shrub. The slow-growing deciduous holly shrub leaves may turn maroon in the fall before the leaves drop. Then abundant bright red berries growing on bare stems add plenty of color throughout the winter until the following spring when the green leaves start to grow back.
How to identify holly bushes?
The best way to identify holly trees and bushes is by looking at the leaves and berries. Individual species of hollies have distinctive glossy leaves with wavy margins and jaggy spines, small blunt points, or smooth edges. Also, species of female holly trees are identifiable by the berries they produce because male hollies don’t grow berries.
What is the name of the evergreen holly tree?
Evergreen American holly trees are also called the Christmas holly.
What is dwarf holly?
Dwarf holly shrubs are ideal plants for compact gardens, evergreen hedgerows, or growing in containers. The dwarf shrubs have all the recognizable features of the larger bushes and trees. In addition, spiky, evergreen foliage and clusters of red berries make dwarf holly shrubs popular for winter gardens.
What is the shape of a holly tree?
The American holly tree looks like the English holly and is often used for Christmas decorations. The tall holly tree has an open, pyramidal shape .
How tall do holly trees grow?
Hollies are classed as dioecious plants, meaning that male and female flowers grow on different plants. Holly trees can grow between 30 and 80 ft. (10 – 24 m) tall. However, holly bushes typically grow up to 6 ft. (1.8 m) tall and are multi-stemmed plants.
What Is Holly?
Holly, or Ilex, is a plant genus made up of many hundreds of species. Depending on the species, holly can be evergreen or can be a deciduous holly. People can easily recognize this plant with its green leaves with bright red berries – but there is a lot of variety within the genus, too. A wide spectrum of traits distinguishes this broad group: spiny or full and luscious; bright or dark green; sun-loving or drought-tolerant.
What is a holly tree?
Holly is a plant that permeates pop-culture. Whether you’re singing a holiday classic with your grandmother, walking along some neighborhood hedges, or brewing a cup of Yerba Mate to start your day, holly, also known as the plant genus Ilex, is often nearby when you know where to look. Today we’ll dig into 20+ different types of holly and holly trees.
How many species of holly are there?
With over 480 species of holly and a wide variety of species, today we’ll explore some of the more popular species you might encounter. The following list is organized in alphabetical order by common name.
Why did people plant holly outside their door?
People planted holly outside their door, believing it would prevent lightning from striking the house. In Celtic mythology, the Holly King is often woven into lore as a giant and often linked to the “green man” archetype of Arthurian legend.
What do bees do to Christmas holly?
Bees conduct pollination, turning the small green ball inside female flowers into red fruit. When these branches of green leaves and red berries are cut, they are primarily used as an ornamental Christmas holly plant in winter plant displays along with spruce tips, boxwood, and Eucalyptus.
What is the habitat of holly?
Fun Fact: This type of holly attracts butterflies and is a larval host to the Columbia silkmoth. It prefers moist habitats such as bogs and marshes
What is a blue holly?
Blue Holly (Ilex x meserveae) Nativity: This species is a cross between English ivy and Tsuru holly. Fun Fact: This variety was first propagated and introduced in New York in 1950 by Kathleen K. Meserve.
How tall does a catberry plant grow?
When shopping for catberry, you may also see the names ‘mountain holly’ or ‘cat berry,’ but these all mean the same thing. Growing between six and ten feet tall, and found mainly in the northeast of the US and hardy to zone four in the USDA ranking, you can’t really go wrong with the wonderful catberry plant.
What color are holly berries?
Berries and fruits can come in all different colors, including pink, black, yellow, white, and most commonly, or at least the most well-known version of berry, red. Holly plants are also relatively easy to look after and use in any kind of garden situation. They work well with the pruning process.
What is holly in nature?
To the untrained eye, holly is holly. It’s something associated with Christmas, sometimes found in nature, and that’s about it. However, to the trained eye, holly provides access to a beautiful, stunning world of greenery that can bring your house and garden to life.
Why is the holly called the holly?
The name stems from the horn-like spines on the leaves that grow upwards in a curved manner. This is much like the horns of a bull. Due to the dense nature in which this holly grows, if you’re growing a hedge for privacy reasons, few holly species do it better.
How big does a holly tree grow?
It can grow between 30 and 40 feet, ideally in full sun or part shade conditions, and it holds USDA growing zones 11 and 12. While this doesn’t look like traditional holly, it’s still an incredibly fine-looking plant.
How many deciduous plants are there in the Ilex family?
That’s Latin. Within this specific genus, there are around 480 evergreen and deciduous plants. Damn, that’s a lot of holly.
What is a holly?
To the untrained eye, holly is holly. It’s something associated with Christmas, sometimes found in nature, and that’s about it. However, to the trained eye, holly provides access to a beautiful, stunning world of greenery that can bring your house and garden to life.
How Many Types Of Holly Bushes Are There?
Holly bushes all fall within the Ilex genus of plants. To date, there are approximately 480 deciduous and evergreen species within the genus. This includes trees, shrubs and climbing plants.
How long do holly bushes take to grow?
Once established, holly bushes grow at a slow to medium rate. You can expect to see height increases of between 12 and 24 inches per year.
Do you need two holly bushes to get berries?
To grow berries, holly bushes need to have male and female plants present. Only female holly bushes have red berries but without any male bushes nearby, female plants will not produce berries.
Are holly bushes poisonous to dogs?
Some holly bushes can have less significant effects on dogs, but it’s best to keep your pets away from all kinds of holly berries as they are toxic.
Is holly a tree or a bush?
There is no standard answer to this question, but typically holly can be categorized either as a tree or as a bush de pending on the size and variant of the plant.
Why wrap shrubs in burlap?
If it seems as though the shrubs are being damaged by the elements of winter, you can wrap them in burlap to protect them from the weather.
What are the colors of holly?
The berries and fruits all tend to appear in the autumn months and are found in a range of colours, including yellow, white, pink, black and various shades of red.
