Gem Box Inkberry Holly
Ilex glabra 'Gem Box'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
30 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Many years
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Berries toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Ilex glabra 'Gem Box' is a compact evergreen shrub with dense, dark green foliage and small, white flowers that are followed by black berries, making it an attractive and low-maintenance choice for hedging and ornamental use. This cultivar is distinguished by its tightly compact, rounded growth habit, making it ideal for small gardens and containers, with excellent tolerance to pruning and shaping.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rooted cuttings into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist for 6 weeks.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced shrub fertilizer.
- Protect from harsh winter winds in colder zones.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil and partial shade for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering
- Mulch annually to retain moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Avoid fertilizing excessively
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Gem Box Inkberry Holly questions
What zones can Gem Box Inkberry Holly grow in?
Gem Box Inkberry 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 Gem Box Inkberry Holly deer resistant?
Yes — Gem Box Inkberry Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Gem Box Inkberry Holly bloom?
Gem Box Inkberry Holly typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Gem Box Inkberry Holly need full sun?
Gem Box Inkberry Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Ilex to compare
Sky Pencil Holly
Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil'
Dwarf Pagoda Holly
Ilex crenata 'Dwarf Pagoda'
Mr Poppins Holly
Ilex x meserveae 'Mr Poppins'
Blue Holly Berry Poppins
Ilex x meserveae 'Berry Poppins'
Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly
Ilex x meservae 'Blue Prince Princess'
Squeeze Box Inkberry Holly
Ilex glabra 'Squeeze Box'
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