shrub

Needlepoint Holly

Name: Needlepoint Holly
Brand: Ilex
Availability: InStock

Ilex cornuta 'Needlepoint'

$34.61

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Tolerates high humidity

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

China, Korea (species)

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, dense, fast-growing evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves. It is a female cultivar known for its prolific production of large, showy red berries that persist through winter. Unlike the species which has multi-spined leaves, 'Needlepoint' foliage typically has only a single spine at the tip, making it softer to the touch. It is also parthenocarpic, meaning it can set fruit without a male pollinator.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Needlepoint Holly is a classic landscape shrub, valued for its handsome, glossy evergreen foliage and spectacular display of bright red berries in fall and winter. It provides a strong structural element and a vibrant splash of color during the drab winter months.

Its dense, fast-growing habit makes it an excellent choice for creating a tall, impenetrable privacy hedge or screen. The single-spined leaves make it less hazardous to work with than other hollies, and its drought and heat tolerance make it a durable choice.

The dense, evergreen branches provide excellent shelter and nesting sites for birds. The profuse berries are a critical winter food source for many bird species, including cedar waxwings, mockingbirds, and robins.

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose 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.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above soil level.
Backfill with amended soil and water thoroughly.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of pine straw or bark mulch.
Water regularly during the first year to establish a deep root system.

Pro Tip

While it sets fruit alone, planting a male Chinese holly like 'Edward J. Stevens' nearby will result in a much heavier berry set.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide supplemental water during prolonged summer droughts.
Prune in late winter to maintain a desirable size and shape.
Use branches with berries for holiday decorations.
Plant in acidic soil for best performance and color.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline (high pH) soils, which causes yellowing.
Avoid poorly drained, boggy locations.
Do not perform heavy pruning in the fall, as this can remove berry-producing wood.
Don't plant too close to walkways due to its large mature size.

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

Dense evergreen privacy screen or hedgeFoundation planting for large buildingsWinter interest specimen with showy berries

Companion Plants

Rhododendron species Camellia sasanqua Loropetalum chinense Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem' Viburnum macrocephalum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Needlepoint Holly questions

What zones can Needlepoint Holly grow in?

Needlepoint 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 Needlepoint Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Needlepoint Holly bloom?

Needlepoint 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 Needlepoint Holly need full sun?

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

Is Needlepoint Holly drought tolerant?

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