Species

Ilex x meserveaeBlue Holly

12 other cultivars

shrub

Blue Holly

Ilex x meserveae 'Centennial Girl'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex x meserveae, or blue hollies, are dense, broadleaf evergreen shrubs prized for their glossy, spiny, dark blue-green leaves and bright red berries on female plants. They require a male pollinator for berry production.

'Centennial Girl' is a female cultivar known for its vigorous, pyramidal growth habit and extremely heavy production of large, bright red berries. It has excellent cold hardiness and dark, glossy foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

'Centennial Girl' is a superb ornamental shrub, offering a classic pyramidal form, glossy blue-green evergreen foliage, and a spectacular display of large red berries that persist through winter. It provides strong structure and color in the landscape.

Its dense, spiny foliage makes it an ideal choice for creating a formal hedge or a privacy screen that also acts as a security barrier. The berried branches are a traditional favorite for holiday decorations.

The small spring flowers attract bees and other pollinators. The bright red berries are a vital winter food source for many bird species, including robins, bluebirds, and cedar waxwings, providing sustenance when other food is scarce.

SpeciesIlex x meserveaeBlue Holly

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Hybrid

Toxicity

Berries are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun to part shade with acidic, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Amend heavy soils with compost to improve drainage.
Set the holly in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole, gently tamping down the soil.
Water deeply and apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

For abundant berries, plant one male blue holly, like 'Blue Prince', for every 5-7 female 'Centennial Girl' plants.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in acidic soil for the best foliage color and health.
Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry spells.
Prune to maintain the desired shape and size in late winter.
Ensure a male pollinator is planted within 50 feet for berry set.

Don't

Don't plant in alkaline or poorly drained soils.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Don't prune after new growth begins in spring, or you will remove flower buds.
Don't expect berries without a nearby male blue holly.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stately evergreen hedge or privacy screenClassic foundation planting with winter interestBerry-laden specimen for a wildlife garden

Companion Plants

Ilex x meserveae 'Blue Prince'Rhododendron Pieris japonica Buxus 'Green Velvet'Hosta 'Sum and Substance'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Holly questions

What zones can Blue Holly grow in?

Blue 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 Blue Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Blue Holly bloom?

Blue 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 Blue Holly need full sun?

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