Dwarf Yaupon Holly

Dwarf Yaupon Holly is the compact selection of Ilex vomitoria that [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ilex-vomitoria-dwarf/) now calls ‘Dwarf’ and lists as formerly known as ‘Nana’. Its glossy evergreen foliage and rounded habit suit clipped plantings, while flowers and fruit are modest on this dwarf selection. ## Features The shrub grows rapidly to about 3–5 feet tall and 3–6 feet wide, with dense, glossy dark green leaves and yellow-green new growth. Small greenish-white flowers appear in spring, especially on plants in sunnier sites. If female flowers are pollinated, red berries may persist into winter, but this cultivar often produces little fruit. ## Siting and Use Plant in full sun to partial shade and average, well-drained neutral to acidic soil; it tolerates occasionally dry or wet conditions. Use it as a hedge, screen, windbreak, barrier, topiary or formal planting; it also fits beside a pond, patio, naturalized area or play space. It is hardy in USDA zones 7–9. NC State Extension notes that plants sold as ‘Dwarf’ or ‘Nana’ have sometimes been confused with the male ‘Stokes Dwarf’ (‘Schilling’s Dwarf’), so verify identity and sex when pollination or fruit production matters. ## Maintenance This low-maintenance evergreen tolerates heavy pruning and can be shaped for a dense hedge or topiary. Trim carefully because its close-knit branches can be brittle.