Species

Ilex latifoliaLusterleaf Holly

2 other cultivars

shrub

Dapat Miss Patricia Holly

Ilex latifolia 'Dapat'

Same species

Species

Ilex latifoliaLusterleaf Holly

2 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

180 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub/tree

Native To

China, Japan

Toxicity

Berries are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex latifolia, or Lusterleaf Holly, is a large evergreen shrub or small tree known for its exceptionally large, leathery, glossy green leaves that resemble those of a magnolia. It has a dense, pyramidal growth habit. Miss Patricia ('Dapat') is a selected female cultivar that produces an abundant crop of large, showy, bright red berries in fall and winter. The combination of bold foliage and prolific berries makes it a stunning winter specimen.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Miss Patricia Holly is a premier specimen for winter interest, featuring a stunning combination of bold, evergreen foliage and masses of large red berries. Its dense, pyramidal form provides strong structure in the landscape year-round.

It is an excellent choice for creating a tall, dense privacy screen or hedge that is both beautiful and functional. The berry-laden branches are highly prized for use in holiday arrangements and wreaths.

The berries provide a vital food source for birds like cedar waxwings, robins, and mockingbirds during the winter months when other food is scarce. The dense branches offer shelter and nesting sites.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in sun or part shade with moist, acidic, well-drained soil.
Space plants 8-10 feet apart for a screen.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Amend soil with organic matter like compost.
Set the plant in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant a male pollinator, such as Ilex latifolia 'San Jose', nearby to ensure heavy berry production on 'Miss Patricia'.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially in the first few years.
Plant in acidic soil for best growth and color.
Ensure a male pollinator is within 50 feet for berry set.
Prune in late winter to maintain a dense, pyramidal shape.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline or poorly drained soils.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, which can cause stress.
Don't plant in deep shade, which will reduce density and berry production.
Avoid heavy shearing, which can ruin its natural form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stately evergreen screen or hedgeBold specimen plant for winter interestStrong architectural anchor for large beds

Companion Plants

Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem' Camellia japonica Rhododendron Osmanthus fragrans Hydrangea macrophylla

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dapat Miss Patricia Holly questions

What zones can Dapat Miss Patricia Holly grow in?

Dapat 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 Dapat Miss Patricia Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Dapat Miss Patricia Holly bloom?

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

Does Dapat Miss Patricia Holly need full sun?

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