Ilex x 'NELLIE R. STEVENS'

Nellie R. Stevens is one of the most widely used hardy hollies worldwide, and at the same time one of the most beautiful. It is a cross between English holly ilex aquifolium and Chinese holly ilex cornuta. It grows relatively fast and can be trained into a gorgeous looking evergreen tree.

The leaves are deep green, extremely glossy (it is very difficult to make a picture without their reflection) and have odd number of teeth: usually 3, but sometimes only 1 or even 5. Its natural shape is conical with a large base, and looks best left unpruned. Though, in small gardens you can control its size by trimming in mid-summer.

Nellie R. Stevens is a female plant that bears profusion of medium to large, vivid red berries in autumn. It is partially self-fertile meaning it does not require a male pollinator nearby. Branches with glossy green leaves and red berries have always been a typical Christmas symbol and decoration, and it is believed that hung above the doorway it will send away evil ghosts.

Czech Republic is the borderline for its hardiness – USDA zone 6. It is guaranteed to survive -24°C and withstands temporary swings a little lower. It will grow almost anywhere but boggy or heavy ground, but will flourish in moist, light, acidic soil that is medium rich in organic matter. Once established, it tolerates summer heat and drought.

Last update 17-01-2009