N.R.S. Holly – Ilex x ‘Nellie R. Stevens’

N.R.S. Holly – Ilex x ‘Nellie R. Stevens’

Overview: N.R.S. Holly, also known as Ilex x ‘Nellie R. Stevens’, is a popular evergreen shrub renowned for its dense foliage, vibrant berries, and elegant form. A hybrid between English holly and Chinese holly, this cultivar combines the best traits of both parents, making it a versatile and attractive addition to any landscape.

Typical Uses:

N.R.S. Holly serves numerous purposes in garden design and landscaping:

• As a hedge or privacy screen, providing year-round coverage and visual interest
• In foundation plantings to add structure and color near buildings
• As a specimen plant in mixed borders or as a standalone focal point
• In winter arrangements and holiday decorations, thanks to its glossy foliage and abundant berries

Establishment and Care Instructions:

Planting: Choose a site with well-drained soil and full to partial sunlight. Dig a hole twice as wide and slightly shallower than the root ball. Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first growing season. Once established, N.R.S. Holly is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry periods.

Pruning: Prune in late winter to early spring to shape the shrub and remove any dead or damaged branches. Regular pruning encourages dense growth and enhances berry production.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring before new growth begins to promote healthy foliage and berry development.

Special Features and Usage:

N.R.S. Holly offers several notable features:

• Berries: Produces abundant clusters of bright red berries in fall and winter, attracting birds and adding seasonal interest to the landscape.
• Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves provide year-round color and texture, with new growth emerging in a lighter shade.
• Hardiness: Tolerates a wide range of soil types and environmental conditions, including heat, cold, and urban pollution.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it an excellent choice for busy homeowners and commercial landscapes.