Evergreen Shrubs (Non-Flowering) – American Holly

Botanical name: ilex opaca

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: can reach up to 60-70 ft in height and 20 ft in width

Hardy zone: zones 8-9

Foliage color: green

Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year

Pruning instructions: prune to maintain desired shape and size during the winter months

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings in the fall and winter

Landscape use: privacy plant, hedge, wind protection, ornamental evergreen

Light needs: at least 6 hours of sun per day

Special features: bright red berries that attract birds

Watering instructions: water when the top 2 inches of soil have dried

Fertilizing instructions : use a liquid tree and shrub plant food once a month throughout the spring and summer

Best time to plant: spring, fall

Best type of soil: loam or clay

Companion plants: viburnums, boxwood, hydrangeas

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets when ingested

Invasive species: not invasive