Species

Ilex latifoliaLusterleaf Holly

2 other cultivars

tree

Miss Patricia Holly

Ilex latifolia 'Miss Patricia'

Same species

Species

Ilex latifoliaLusterleaf Holly

2 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

180 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Average to moist

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen tree

Native To

China, Japan

Toxicity

Berries are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex latifolia, or Lusterleaf Holly, is a broadleaf evergreen tree known for its large, leathery, glossy dark green leaves and dense, pyramidal habit. It produces clusters of red berries on female plants if a male pollinator is nearby. 'Miss Patricia' is a selected female clone prized for its exceptionally large, lustrous leaves and vigorous, upright growth. It is a reliable and heavy producer of bright red berries.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Valued for its large, bold, evergreen foliage that provides a lush, almost tropical feel. The bright red berries offer striking winter contrast and are excellent for holiday decorations.

Its dense, pyramidal growth makes it an outstanding choice for a tall, impenetrable privacy screen or windbreak. It requires minimal pruning to maintain its handsome shape.

The berries are a valuable food source for birds like cedar waxwings and mockingbirds during the winter months. The dense foliage provides nesting sites and cover.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with moist, acidic, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the container.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
Backfill with soil, watering gently to settle it.
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant a male Ilex latifolia nearby to ensure pollination and a heavy crop of ornamental red berries.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistent moisture, especially in hot, dry weather.
Use an acid-based fertilizer if leaves start to yellow (chlorosis).
Provide a male pollinator for berry production.

Don't

Don't plant in alkaline or poorly drained soils.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Refrain from heavy pruning, which can spoil its natural form.

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

Stately evergreen specimen treeDense privacy screen or hedgeAnchor for foundation plantings

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Camellia Magnolia grandiflora Aucuba japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Miss Patricia Holly questions

What zones can Miss Patricia Holly grow in?

Miss Patricia 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 Miss Patricia Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Miss Patricia Holly bloom?

Miss Patricia 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 Miss Patricia Holly need full sun?

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

Is Miss Patricia Holly drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Miss Patricia Holly handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.