Species

Ilex x meserveaeBlue Holly

12 other cultivars

shrub RHS Award

Blue Maid Holly

Ilex x meserveae 'Mesid'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex x meserveae, or Blue Holly, is a group of hybrid hollies known for their exceptional cold hardiness, spiny evergreen leaves with a bluish cast, and purplish stems.

'Blue Maid' (Mesid) is a vigorous, densely-branched female cultivar that produces a profusion of bright red berries in fall, which persist through winter. It requires a male pollinator, such as 'Blue Prince', for berry production.

Uses & Benefits:

'Blue Maid' holly offers multi-season interest with its handsome, glossy blue-green foliage and a spectacular display of bright red berries that contrast beautifully against snow in winter. It has a classic, formal appearance.

Its dense, spiny foliage makes it an excellent choice for a security barrier or a privacy hedge that is nearly impenetrable. The cut branches with berries are a traditional decoration for the holiday season.

The berries, while mildly toxic to humans, are a valuable winter food source for many bird species, including robins, cedar waxwings, and bluebirds, providing sustenance when other food is scarce.

SpeciesIlex x meserveaeBlue Holly

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

108 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

30-50 years

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic to humans, dogs, and cats if ingested.

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with acidic, moist, well-drained soil.
Plant in full sun for best berry production.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant in the hole, keeping the root flare at soil level.
Backfill with soil, water thoroughly to settle.
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

For reliable berry production, plant one 'Blue Prince' or 'Blue Stallion' for every 5-7 'Blue Maid' shrubs within 50 feet.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment.
Plant a male pollinator nearby for berry set.
Mulch to protect the shallow roots.
Prune in early spring to maintain a dense habit.

Don't

Don't plant in poorly drained or alkaline soils.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which reduces berry production.
Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Avoid pruning after new growth starts if you want flowers and berries.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Classic evergreen hedge for year-round privacyStrong foundation planting with winter interestSpecimen plant for its colorful winter berries

Companion Plants

Hydrangea paniculata Viburnum Spiraea Weigela Buxus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Maid Holly questions

What zones can Blue Maid Holly grow in?

Blue Maid Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blue Maid Holly deer resistant?

Yes — Blue Maid Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Blue Maid Holly bloom?

Blue Maid Holly typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blue Maid Holly need full sun?

Blue Maid Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.