3 named cultivars

tree RHS Award

Lusterleaf Holly

Ilex latifolia

Same species

3 named cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

270 inches

Width

150 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived tree

Native To

China, Japan

Toxicity

Berries are toxic to humans and pets if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, broadleaf evergreen holly native to China and Japan, known for its exceptionally large, leathery, and lustrous leaves. The leaves are among the largest of any holly, up to 8 inches long, giving the plant a bold, almost tropical texture. Female plants produce large clusters of dull red berries.

Uses & Benefits:

Its primary ornamental feature is its dramatic, large-leaved foliage, which creates a unique, bold, and somewhat tropical texture in the temperate garden. The dense, pyramidal form and winter berries add to its appeal.

Due to its dense habit and large size, it is an excellent choice for creating tall, evergreen privacy screens or windbreaks on larger properties.

The inconspicuous spring flowers attract pollinators. The large red berries, produced on female plants, are a food source for birds in the winter.

Planting

How to Grow

Site in a location protected from harsh winter winds.
Amend soil to be acidic, organic, and well-draining.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Plant with the root flare at or slightly above soil level.
Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
Mulch to maintain consistent soil moisture and temperature.

Pro Tip

Site it in a location protected from harsh winter winds to prevent desiccation and damage to the large leaves.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide ample space to grow to its mature size.
Plant in acidic soil for best foliage color and health.
Provide consistent moisture; do not let it dry out.
Use as a bold statement piece in the landscape.

Don't

Do not plant in an exposed, windy site in colder zones.
Avoid planting in alkaline or poorly drained soil.
Do not expect berries without a suitable male pollinator nearby.
Avoid heavy shearing, which spoils its natural majestic form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bold architectural specimen treeDense evergreen screen for large propertiesStately foundation planting for large buildings

Companion Plants

Camellia japonica Fatsia japonica Aucuba japonica Rhododendron Mahonia eurybracteata 'Soft Caress'

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lusterleaf Holly questions

What zones can Lusterleaf Holly grow in?

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 Lusterleaf Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Lusterleaf Holly bloom?

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 Lusterleaf Holly need full sun?

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