NELLIE STEVENS HOLLY
Nellie Stevens Holly (Ilex × ‘Nellie R. Stevens’) is a highly popular evergreen shrub or small tree in Florida landscapes because of its dense foliage, glossy leaves, and bright red berries. Here’s a detailed guide tailored for Florida conditions:
✅ General Characteristics
Type: Broadleaf evergreen holly, hybrid of English holly (Ilex aquifolium) and Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta).
Size:
Typically 15–25 ft tall, 10–15 ft wide; can reach up to 30–40 ft if left unpruned.
Shape: Naturally forms a pyramidal or conical shape, requiring little pruning for aesthetics.
Leaves: Glossy, dark green with spiny margins—classic holly look.
Flowers & Fruit: Small white flowers in spring; abundant bright red berries in fall and winter, which attract birds like cedar waxwings and robins.
Growth Rate: Fast-growing (up to 3 ft per year in ideal conditions).
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6–9, thriving in Florida’s heat and humidity.
✅ Why It Thrives in Florida
Heat & Humidity Tolerance: Performs well in Florida’s subtropical climate.
Drought Resistance: Once established, it tolerates dry spells.
Low Maintenance: Naturally maintains its shape; minimal pruning required.
Wildlife Friendly: Berries provide food for birds; dense foliage offers shelter.
✅ Planting & Care Tips
Light: Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for best growth).
Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0–7.0). Avoid standing water to prevent root rot.
Watering:
Regular watering during establishment.
Afterward, water weekly or during drought periods; avoid overwatering.
Spacing: For hedges, plant 6 ft apart to allow air circulation and dense growth.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring.
Pruning:
Minimal needed; prune in fall or early spring if shaping or removing lower branches for a tree-like form.
✅ Landscape Uses
Privacy Screens & Hedges: Dense foliage makes it ideal for living walls.
Specimen Plant: Attractive as a standalone ornamental tree.
Wildlife Habitat: Provides berries and shelter for birds.
Holiday Décor: Berries and foliage are popular for seasonal decorations.
✅ Florida-Specific Notes
Thrives in North, Central, and South Florida, including coastal areas (moderate salt tolerance).
Best planted in fall or early spring for strong root development before summer heat.
NOTE FROM JOEL
This is a great tree as a stand alone in an ornamental situation or it also performs as a hedge, especially if you want to punish an intruder. The little thorns all along the edge of the leaf won’t stab but they will definitely irritate. The dark green color is dynamic against a lighter colored backdrop. This is a slow grower. It’s not a shade tree as other Hollie species can be. All in all, you will always love this tree.
