Ilex opaca 'Maryland Dwarf'

American holly

  • Dense, spreading form
  • Dark green evergreen leaves
  • Bright red winter berries
  • Native & low maintenance
  • Cold & heat tolerant
  • Wildlife friendly
  • Winter interest

Purchase options for American holly

  • Size: 5 Gallon 9-12"
  • Status: BeautiFULL
  • Availability: Online

$273.00

Success Starts With Soil

Maryland Dwarf is a standout evergreen holly with a unique, compact habit. Its rich, dark green leaves are minimally spiny and hold their color beautifully through winter. Bright red berries appear in fall and persist through winter, attracting birds and adding festive interest to the landscape. Perfect for use in woodland gardens, low hedges, foundation plantings, or as a bold specimen, this female cultivar delivers year-round structure and seasonal color. Plus, its cut branches make an excellent addition to holiday décor.

Attributes
Evergreen
Fall Color
Focal Point
Specimen
Attracts Wildlife
Attracts Songbirds
Exposure
Full Sun
Partial Sun
Habit
Compact
Mounding
Soil Moisture
Average Water
Moist, Well-Drained
Growing Tips for Ilex opaca ''Maryland Dwarf''

Grows best in consistently moist, acidic, well-drained soil and performs well in full sun to part shade. Avoid poorly drained or waterlogged spots—this plant dislikes wet feet. In hot summer climates, give it some afternoon shade for best foliage density. It's drought-tolerant once established and incredibly low maintenance. While it can be pruned to control its size or shape, it naturally forms a lovely, low, mounding shape with minimal effort. For berry production, pair it with a nearby male pollinator such as 'Jersey Knight'.