Ilex 'NELLIE R.STEVENS'

Nellie R. Stevens holly is one of the most cultivate hardy hollies worldwide simply because it is beautiful and versatile. 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. Natural crown shape is widely conical to broadly oval. It looks great unpruned, however, if you wish to keep it smaller or make it denser you can prune it in early spring for density, or reduce its size by mid- to late summer trimming.

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.

When purchasing a tree form bear in mind that the stem height will remain the same as what you see/buy now. It will not grow taller, only thicker. You need to consider whether you want a half-standard with a short stem that is usually not taller than 100-130 cm i.e. the crown will screen top part of the hedge and you can still grow smaller plants or perennials underneath. Or if you want a standard tree under which you can walk make sure its stem's selling size is 180 cm or more.

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. Keep it mulched with at least 7 cm of good bark mulch all year round. Provide a good support for standard trees as well as half-standards, for at least 3 years after transplanting.

Last update 17-01-2009; 03-02-2019