
Screen Play Holly
Ilex integra latifolia 'Screen Play'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
300 inches
Width
120 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Long-lived shrub/tree
Native To
Hybrid of Asian species
Toxicity
Berries are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
This hybrid holly is a vigorous, fast-growing evergreen selected for its dense, upright, pyramidal form and large, attractive foliage. 'Screen Play' is exceptional for creating tall, dense privacy screens quickly. Its leaves are large, glossy, and spineless, giving it a softer appearance than many other hollies.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site in full sun to part shade with well-drained soil.
- Dig a planting hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
- Set the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
- Backfill with the original soil, gently firming it down.
- Water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, avoiding the trunk.
Pro Tip
For a dense screen, space plants about 6-8 feet apart; they will fill in quickly.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during establishment and in periods of drought.
- Prune annually to maintain the desired shape and density.
- Provide adequate spacing to allow for mature size.
- Mulch to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Don't
- Do not plant in poorly drained or constantly wet soil.
- Avoid planting too deep, which can lead to root rot.
- Don't allow the root ball to dry out during the first year.
- Avoid heavy pruning in late fall, as it can stimulate growth that won't harden off.
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
Screen Play Holly questions
What zones can Screen Play Holly grow in?
Screen Play 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 Screen Play Holly deer resistant?
Yes — Screen Play Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Screen Play Holly bloom?
Screen Play 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 Screen Play Holly need full sun?
Screen Play Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Screen Play Holly drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Screen Play Holly handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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