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.