Species

shrub

Dragon Slayer Holly

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex x aquipernyi is a hybrid holly, a cross between Ilex aquifolium and Ilex pernyi, known for its dense, pyramidal form and spiny, glossy evergreen leaves.

'Dragon Slayer' is a vigorous male selection with a strong, upright pyramidal habit. It serves as an excellent pollinator for female hollies like 'Dragon Lady' and makes a handsome specimen on its own.

Uses & Benefits:

Its dense, pyramidal form and glossy, spiny leaves provide strong architectural interest and year-round structure in the landscape. It creates a classic, formal look.

When planted in a row, 'Dragon Slayer' forms an impenetrable and dense screen or hedge, providing excellent privacy and a formidable barrier due to its spiny leaves.

As a male pollinator, it is essential for the fruit production of nearby female hollies. The berries on female plants provide a vital winter food source for birds like robins and cedar waxwings.

SpeciesIlex aquipernyiChinese Hybrid Holly

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Leaves and stems are mildly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with acidic, well-drained soil and good air circulation.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the container.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is at soil level.
Backfill the hole with amended soil, tamping down gently.
Water deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, avoiding contact with the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location protected from harsh winter winds to prevent foliage desiccation and damage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry spells and in the first few years.
Use an acidic fertilizer formulated for evergreens.
Prune to maintain its pyramidal shape and remove any dead branches.
Plant near a female holly if you want the other plant to produce berries.

Don't

Don't plant in alkaline or poorly drained soils.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially in winter.
Don't perform heavy pruning in late fall, as this can damage new growth.
Do not pile mulch against the stem, which can cause rot.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural evergreen specimenTall, dense privacy screenFormal foundation planting

Companion Plants

RhododendronAzalea Pieris japonica Hosta Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dragon Slayer Holly questions

What zones can Dragon Slayer Holly grow in?

Dragon Slayer 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 Dragon Slayer Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Dragon Slayer Holly bloom?

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

Does Dragon Slayer Holly need full sun?

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