Dwarf Burford Holly
Ilex cornuta 'Dwarf Burford'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
72 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Low to medium
Humidity
Tolerates high humidity
Lifespan
Long-lived, 50+ years
Native To
China and Korea
Toxicity
Berries are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Ilex cornuta, or Chinese Holly, is a dense, broadleaf evergreen shrub known for its glossy, unusually shaped rectangular leaves. It is exceptionally heat and drought tolerant. 'Dwarf Burford' is a popular, compact selection that typically grows into a dense globe without pruning. It has glossy, single-spined leaves and produces a profusion of large, bright red berries without needing a male pollinator.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a location in full sun or light shade.
- Ensure the soil is well-drained; amend heavy clay if needed.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
- Set the plant with the top of the root ball level with the ground.
- Backfill the hole and water deeply to settle the soil.
- Water regularly for the first year until it is established.
Pro Tip
This holly rarely needs pruning; allow it to grow into its natural dense, rounded shape for a low-maintenance shrub.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in well-drained, acidic soil for best performance.
- Water deeply during prolonged droughts, even once established.
- Provide full sun for the densest growth and best berry production.
- Use branches with berries for holiday decorations.
Don't
- Do not plant in poorly drained or constantly wet soils.
- Avoid heavy shearing, which ruins its natural form.
- Don't worry about a pollinator; it sets fruit on its own.
- Do not plant in heavy shade, which leads to sparse growth.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Dwarf Burford Holly questions
What zones can Dwarf Burford Holly grow in?
Dwarf Burford Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Dwarf Burford Holly deer resistant?
Yes — Dwarf Burford Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Dwarf Burford Holly bloom?
Dwarf Burford Holly typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dwarf Burford Holly need full sun?
Dwarf Burford Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Dwarf Burford Holly drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dwarf Burford Holly handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Ilex to compare
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Ilex x meserveae 'Mr Poppins'
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Ilex x meserveae 'Berry Poppins'
Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly
Ilex x meservae 'Blue Prince Princess'
Keep exploring
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Grow Dwarf Burford Holly with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
