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‘Densa’

Holly - Inkberry

Ilex glabra

'Densa'

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Broad pyramidal Ilex glabra Densa planted by stone wall with ivy groundcover "}
  • Native to North America
  • Boxwood alternative
  • Award winner
Description

A hardy form of our native inkberry, 'Densa' offers glossy dark green foliage and a broad upright habit. It holds its foliage right down to the ground, never looking naked like some other cultivars. Grown primarily for its glossy foliage, this female selection may produce black berries if a male pollinator is in the vicinity.

Awards
Gold Medal, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society
USDA Zone
5 - 9 (-20°F/-28.9°C)
Exposure
Full sun, Part sun
Height
3 - 4'
Width
3 - 4'
Finish Time
1 season
Type
Evergreen
Bloom Time
Spring
Flower Color
White
Foliage Color
Green
Liner Sizes
2 1/4", 4"

Soil

Does best in moist (even very moist), slightly acidic soils.

Pruning

Naturally dense habit requires little pruning; may be trimmed after new growth has hardened off in late spring, though. Rejuvenate through hard pruning if it becomes leggy.

Uses

Hedges; edgings; foundation plantings; specimen; containers; mass planting.

Growing Tips

Tolerates shade well, but leaf color and overall foliage coverage is better with at least some sun. Grows most rapidly where moisture is consistently available.