Species

Ilex latifoliaLusterleaf Holly

2 other cultivars

tree

Auburn Lusterleaf Holly

Ilex latifolia 'Auburn'

Same species

Species

Ilex latifoliaLusterleaf Holly

2 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300 inches

Width

180 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived tree

Native To

Japan, China

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex latifolia, or Lusterleaf Holly, is a large broadleaf evergreen tree known for its exceptionally large, leathery, serrated leaves, resembling those of a magnolia. It has a dense, pyramidal growth habit. 'Auburn' is a female selection noted for its particularly glossy, dark green foliage and reliable production of large clusters of dull red berries, which persist through winter.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Offers a bold, tropical texture with its large, glossy leaves, creating a dramatic effect in the landscape. Its dense form and persistent red berries provide excellent winter interest.

Its dense, evergreen nature makes it an outstanding choice for a tall privacy screen or windbreak that requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape.

The berries provide a valuable winter food source for birds like cedar waxwings and robins, while the dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with good drainage and acidic soil.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
Plant the holly so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole, gently firming the soil.
Water deeply to settle the roots.
Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant a male pollinator, such as the species Ilex latifolia, nearby to ensure heavy berry production on this female cultivar.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide supplemental water during extended droughts.
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and size.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Ensure a male pollinator is within 50 feet for berry set.

Don't

Don't plant in poorly drained or alkaline soils.
Don't let the soil dry out completely, especially when young.
Avoid heavy pruning, which can spoil its natural form.
Don't pile mulch against the trunk.

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 treeTall, dense privacy screen or hedgeHandsome backdrop for mixed borders

Companion Plants

Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem' Rhododendron Camellia sasanqua Hosta Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Auburn Lusterleaf Holly questions

What zones can Auburn Lusterleaf Holly grow in?

Auburn Lusterleaf 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 Auburn Lusterleaf Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Auburn Lusterleaf Holly bloom?

Auburn Lusterleaf 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 Auburn Lusterleaf Holly need full sun?

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