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photo of Tim Wood

Meet the Breeder

Tim Wood
Grand Haven, MI, USA

CASTLE KEEP®

Holly - Blue

Ilex x meserveae

'SMNIFA'

PP#31,118

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Close up of the vibrant evergreen foliage of Castle Keep blue holly Castle Keep blue holly with healthy green foliage in a landscape Close up of the red berries of Castle Keep holly
  • Evergreen
  • Soft, dense foliage
  • Hardy
Description

Long a favorite during its evaluations, Castle Keep® blue holly has the classic good looks of this handsome evergreen but with soft-to-the-touch deep green foliage. This blue holly adds interest to the winter landscape and provides a food source for birds. The semi-dwarf rounded habit makes it a versatile choice for landscapes, perfect for hedges, screens, or as a specimen. Castle Keep® Ilex x meserveae is a female variety that will develop red fruit if a male pollinator like Castle Wall® holly is planted nearby. The bright berries are a classic addition to cut flower or holiday arrangements. 

USDA Zone
5 - 7 (-20°F/-28.9°C)
Exposure
Full sun, Part sun
Height
3 - 5'
Width
3 - 4'
Finish Time
1 season
Type
Evergreen
Bloom Time
Spring
Flower Color
White
Foliage Color
Green
Liner Sizes
2 1/4", 4", Quick Turn

Soil

Prefers moist, acidic soils. Shallow root system benefits from mulch.

Pruning

Blooms on old wood; however, it's best to avoid pruning female hollies as pruning after bloom removes any developing fruit.

Uses

Hedges; screens; specimen; landscaping.

Growing Tips

Plant a male pollinator within 50' to ensure pollination; one male will pollinate up to 7 females. To minimize winter damage to the evergreen foliage, provide late-season irrigation if necessary and site so that plant is protected from harsh winds and sun.

  • Grower Sheet: Castle Keep® Ilex Grower Sheet
  • Tag: Castle Keep® Ilex Tag
  • Plant of the Week: Plant of the Week February 21, 2019: Castle Keep® Holly
  • Spec Sheet: Castle Keep® Ilex Spec Sheet
  • Benchcard: Castle Keep® Ilex Benchcard

    • Features: Clay soil, Compact, Cut flower, Evergreen, Foliage interest, Winter interest, Attracts pollinators

    Filters: Botanical genus: Ilex, Common name: Holly - Blue, Retail program: Proven Winners® ColorChoice®, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, Exposure: Full sun, Exposure: Part sun, Bloom time: Spring, White flowers, Green foliage

    Features: Clay soil, Compact, Cut flower, Evergreen, Foliage interest, Winter interest, Attracts pollinators

    Filters: Botanical genus: Ilex, Common name: Holly - Blue, Retail program: Proven Winners® ColorChoice®, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, Exposure: Full sun, Exposure: Part sun, Bloom time: Spring, White flowers, Green foliage