GEM BOX®

Holly - Inkberry

Ilex glabra

'SMNIGAB17'

PP#27,554; CBR#5629

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Petite globe of Gem Box Ilex glabra with hydrangeas Close up of glossy evergreen Gem Box inkberry holly foliage with hydrangea foliage Round Gem Box Ilex glabra in decorative container YouTube video describing the plant shown on this page
  • Native to North America
  • Boxwood alternative
  • Disease resistant
Description

Gem Box® inkberry holly is a dense, ball-shaped plant with small dark green leaves. Foliage develops attractive red tips during the spring flush. Maintains good branching right to the ground so it never looks bare-legged like other cultivars can. As versatile and good-looking as boxwood with no disease issues!

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

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.

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.