Holly, Blue Prince #3
Holly, Blue Prince
Ilex x meserveae 'Blue Prince'
Height: Typically 6–8 feet tall
Spread: Approximately 4–6 feet wide
Spacing: Plant 4–6 feet apart for hedging or structure
Growth Rate: Moderate
Evergreen
Description
Holly Blue Prince is a gorgeous evergreen shrub that brings structure, polish, and year-round interest to the landscape. Its rich, blue-green foliage has a beautiful leathery texture and forms a dense, tidy shape that's perfect for hedges, foundation plantings, or formal accents. Though Blue Prince is a male variety and does not produce berries, it plays a starring role in pollinating female blue hollies like 'Blue Princess', making it essential for vibrant red fruit display on companion plants.
The glossy leaves and upright habit create a bold, satisfying presence in both traditional and contemporary designs. Its refined look holds up beautifully through winter, offering structure and color when most plants fade.
General Care
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun to part shade
- Watering: Water regularly after planting to establish a deep root system; once established, needs little additional watering except during extended dry periods
- Mulching: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch to help conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to early spring to shape or maintain density
With its bold evergreen foliage, excellent structure, and essential role as a pollinator for berry-producing hollies, Holly Blue Prince is a reliable and handsome addition that brings lasting impact and elegance to the landscape.