Species

Ilex attenuataTopal Holly

2 other cultivars

treeN. America Native

Eagleston Holly

Ilex attenuata 'Eagleston'

Same species

Species

Ilex attenuataTopal Holly

2 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

144 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen tree

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex x attenuata is a naturally occurring hybrid of American Holly (I. opaca) and Dahoon Holly (I. cassine), known for its dense, pyramidal form and glossy evergreen leaves. 'Eagleston' is a popular selection prized for its dense, upright pyramidal shape that requires minimal pruning, and its prolific production of orange-red berries without needing a separate male pollinator nearby.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

'Eagleston' provides strong year-round structure with its dense, pyramidal form and glossy evergreen leaves. In fall and winter, it is adorned with bright orange-red berries that contrast beautifully with the foliage, making it a classic choice for holiday decorations and winter interest.

Its dense branching habit makes it an excellent choice for creating tall, formal privacy screens or hedges that block views and reduce noise. It is also highly tolerant of urban conditions and requires less pruning than many other holly varieties to maintain its shape.

The berries are a valuable food source for birds like cedar waxwings, robins, and mockingbirds during the winter months when other food is scarce. The dense foliage also provides excellent nesting sites and cover for birds.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with full sun to part shade and acidic, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Set the top of the root ball even with or slightly above ground level.
Backfill the hole with the original soil, breaking up any large clumps.
Water deeply to eliminate air pockets around the roots.
Mulch with 2-3 inches of pine straw or bark, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in acidic soil for best growth and berry production. Amend alkaline soils with sulfur or iron sulfate to lower pH.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during the first year to establish a deep root system.
Maintain a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Prune in late winter to maintain its pyramidal shape if needed.
Test soil pH and amend if it is too alkaline.

Don't

Don't plant in heavy, waterlogged clay soil without amending for drainage.
Avoid planting too deep; ensure the root flare is visible.
Don't allow the soil to completely dry out, especially in summer heat.
Refrain from heavy shearing, which can spoil its natural form.

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

Elegant evergreen privacy screenStately formal specimen treeArchitectural corner planting for homes

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Camellia japonica Hydrangea macrophylla Hosta Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Eagleston Holly questions

What zones can Eagleston Holly grow in?

Eagleston 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 Eagleston Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Eagleston Holly bloom?

Eagleston 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 Eagleston Holly need full sun?

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

Is Eagleston Holly drought tolerant?

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