Species

Ilex opacaAmerican Holly

3 other cultivars

treeN. America Native

Jersey Princess American Holly

Ilex opaca 'Jersey Princess'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex opaca, the American Holly, is a broadleaf evergreen tree native to the eastern United States. It is characterized by its spiny green leaves, pyramidal shape, and bright red berries on female plants.

'Jersey Princess' is a highly-regarded female cultivar known for its exceptionally dark, glossy green foliage, dense branching, and prolific production of large, vibrant red berries that persist through winter.

Uses & Benefits:

'Jersey Princess' is a magnificent specimen tree, offering year-round beauty with its dark evergreen foliage and a spectacular winter display of bright red berries. Its classic pyramidal form is highly desirable.

It can be planted as a tall screen or windbreak. The berry-laden branches are famously used in holiday wreaths, swags, and other decorations.

As a native tree, it provides tremendous ecological benefits. The berries are a crucial winter food source for over 40 species of birds, including robins, mockingbirds, and cedar waxwings. The dense foliage offers protection and nesting sites.

SpeciesIlex opacaAmerican Holly

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

150 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Very long-lived evergreen tree

Native To

Eastern United States

Toxicity

Berries are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with full sun and acidic, well-drained, sandy loam.
Dig a wide, shallow hole, no deeper than the root ball.
Gently place the tree in the hole, ensuring it is straight.
The top of the root ball should be slightly above the surrounding grade.
Backfill with the original soil, watering to settle.
Mulch out to the dripline, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

For the heaviest berry set, plant a male American holly, like 'Jersey Knight', within 30-40 feet.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during the first few years to establish deep roots.
Protect young trees from deer browsing, though mature trees are resistant.
Prune branches in December to use for holiday decorations.
Be patient; American hollies are slow-growing but live for a very long time.

Don't

Don't plant in heavy clay or poorly drained soils.
Avoid planting in alkaline soils, which will cause chlorosis.
Don't 'top' the tree or shear it heavily, which ruins its natural form.
Avoid disturbing the roots once the tree is established.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stately evergreen specimen treeTall privacy screen or windbreakWildlife garden focal point

Companion Plants

Cornus florida Amelanchier canadensis Rhododendron Kalmia latifolia Viburnum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Jersey Princess American Holly questions

What zones can Jersey Princess American Holly grow in?

Jersey Princess American Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Jersey Princess American Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Jersey Princess American Holly bloom?

Jersey Princess American 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 Jersey Princess American Holly need full sun?

Jersey Princess American Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.