shrub

Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly

Ilex x meservae 'Blue Prince Princess'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex x meserveae, or blue holly, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with glossy, spiny, dark blue-green leaves and purplish stems. 'Blue Princess' is a female cultivar prized for its abundant, bright red berries in fall and winter, which require pollination from a male cultivar like 'Blue Prince'.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with attractive silvery foliage, ideal for hedges and borders.

Drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Supports local wildlife by providing shelter and food for insects and birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young plants into well-drained soil in a partially shaded spot.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mist foliage during dry spells to maintain humidity levels.
Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant and remove dead wood.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide plants every 3-4 years in early spring for propagation.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry periods 🌱
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches ✂️
Mulch annually to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not fertilize late in the season to prevent weak new growth
Refrain from heavy pruning during winter months

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

Evergreen hedge with silvery foliageArchitectural accent in shaded garden beds

Companion Plants

Camellia Azalea Hosta Ferns Japanese maple

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly questions

What zones can Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly grow in?

Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly bloom?

Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blue Prince Holly Blue Princess Holly need full sun?

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