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Inkberry Holly

A neat, rounded Inkberry Holly shrub with glossy green leaves.

The Native Alternative to Boxwood

Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra) is a fantastic native evergreen shrub. Unlike the prickly hollies you might know, Inkberry has soft, spineless, dark green leaves. It naturally forms a neat, rounded mound, making it an excellent, eco-friendly substitute for Boxwood in foundation plantings and hedges.

Why You Need It:

  • Native Evergreen: Provides year-round structure while supporting local ecosystems.
  • Soft Foliage: No sharp spines, so it's safe to plant near walkways.
  • Adaptable: Tolerates wet soil and shade better than many other evergreens.

Planting Tips:

Grows in Sun or Part Shade. It prefers moist, acidic soil. Prune it occasionally to keep it dense, as it can get "leggy" (bare at the bottom) if left untouched for years.

Type

Native

benefits 

Evergreen, Supports Wildlife, Hardy

Attracts:

Birds, Bees

Soil Type 

Rich & Moist, Adaptable, Tolerates Clay Soil

Sun Light

Full Sun, Part Sun / Shade

     

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