Nellie Stevens Holly
Ilex × ‘Nellie R. Stevens’Ilex x ‘Nellie R. Stevens’, or Nellie Stevens Holly, is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree renowned for its dense, pyramidal form and vibrant foliage. Its glossy, dark green leaves provide year-round color, while its showy red berries offer seasonal interest in the fall and winter. Nellie Stevens Holly is widely used for privacy screens, hedges, and foundation plantings due to its vigorous growth and adaptability.
This hybrid holly typically grows 15–25 feet tall and 8–15 feet wide, forming a striking pyramidal shape. It thrives in USDA zones 6–9 and prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant tolerates a variety of soils, including clay, sand, and loamy types, as long as they are well-drained. Its ability to grow quickly, coupled with its dense foliage, makes it an excellent choice for creating natural barriers or specimen trees in landscapes.
In the spring, small, inconspicuous white flowers appear, followed by a profusion of bright red berries in fall. The berries persist through winter, providing food for birds and adding decorative appeal. Nellie Stevens Holly is drought-tolerant once established and resistant to pests and diseases, further enhancing its suitability for low-maintenance gardens.
Care Instructions
- Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Soil: Thrives in well-drained soil; adaptable to clay, sand, or loam.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, it requires minimal watering.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.
- Pruning: Prune as needed in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove damaged branches.
- Winter Protection: Mulching around the base is beneficial in colder climates.
Nellie Stevens Holly combines beauty and functionality. Its glossy foliage, vibrant berries, and dense growth make it a favorite among gardeners seeking privacy screens, attractive hedges, or striking specimen plants.
