Holly 'Blue Maid'
Ilex × meserveae 'Blue Maid', Meserve Holly, Blue HollyBring year-round beauty and cool color to your landscape with the ‘Blue Maid’ Holly, a standout evergreen shrub known for its striking blue-green foliage and contrasting red berries. This hardy variety offers exceptional cold resistance, making it a top choice for gardeners in cooler climates. With its elegant, spiny leaves and upright, dense form, ‘Blue Maid’ adds structure and charm to the landscape. Whether used as a foundation plant, privacy hedge, or stand-alone specimen, you can’t go wrong.
In late fall through winter, the female ‘Blue Maid’ produces brilliant red berries that provide an eye-catching contrast against its dark green foliage. This makes it perfect for holiday decor and wildlife interest. Birds are especially fond of the berries, making this holly a great choice for those looking to attract feathered friends. To ensure berry production, pair it with a male pollinator such as ‘Blue Prince’ Holly nearby.
Low-maintenance and adaptable, ‘Blue Maid’ thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It grows to a mature height of 8 to 12 feet and can be pruned to shape or size as desired. Whether you’re looking to add four-season appeal or a touch of timeless elegance, ‘Blue Maid’ Holly is a durable addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Instructions
Light Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Prefers slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soil.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells and the first growing season.
Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy foliage and berry production.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged growth.
Winter Protection: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the root zone in colder climates to insulate and retain moisture.