Species

Ilex attenuataTopal Holly

2 other cultivars

treeN. America Native

Savannah Holly

Ilex attenuata 'Savannah'

Same species

Species

Ilex attenuataTopal Holly

2 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

360 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen tree

Native To

Southeastern United States (parent species)

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex attenuata is a naturally occurring hybrid of I. cassine and I. opaca, resulting in a fast-growing, pyramidal evergreen tree. Female plants produce ornamental berries if a male pollinator is nearby. 'Savannah' is a popular female cultivar celebrated for its dense, upright form and exceptionally heavy production of bright red berries that persist through winter, creating a stunning display.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its classic, formal pyramidal shape and brilliant red berries against evergreen foliage make it a striking landscape specimen, especially in winter. The branches are popular for holiday decorations.

When planted in a row, 'Savannah' hollies form a dense, tall screen that provides excellent year-round privacy and acts as an effective windbreak.

The dense branches offer shelter and nesting sites for birds. The persistent berries are a crucial winter food source for many bird species, including cedar waxwings and robins.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with full sun to part shade and acidic soil.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with soil.
Backfill with amended soil, gently firming it around the roots.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base.

Pro Tip

Plant a male holly cultivar like 'Jersey Knight' nearby to ensure pollination and a heavy berry set on this female variety.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply and regularly during the first year of establishment.
Test soil pH and amend if necessary to maintain acidity.
Prune in late winter to maintain its pyramidal shape.
Provide a male pollinator for berry production.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained or alkaline soils.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially when young.
Don't shear into a hedge, as this removes berry-producing wood.
Never pile mulch against the trunk, which can cause rot.

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

Elegant vertical accent for narrow spacesDense privacy screen or hedgeFestive winter interest specimen

Companion Plants

Camellia japonica Rhododendron spp. Mahonia bealei Helleborus orientalis Nandina domestica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Savannah Holly questions

What zones can Savannah Holly grow in?

Savannah Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Savannah Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Savannah Holly bloom?

Savannah 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 Savannah Holly need full sun?

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

Is Savannah Holly drought tolerant?

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