Nellie Stevens Holly

Nellie Stevens holly is a dense evergreen hybrid with glossy dark-green leaves, small spring flowers, and bright red berries that persist into winter. Its pyramidal form can serve as a specimen, hedge, or screen, and mature size varies by site; published sources report roughly 15–30 feet tall and 8–25 feet wide. ## Growing Conditions The selected cultivar is Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens', a hybrid of Ilex aquifolium and Ilex cornuta. Grow it in acidic, well-drained soil with consistent moisture while it establishes. Full sun to partial shade is suitable; in hot sites, some afternoon shade can help protect foliage. Avoid persistently wet ground. Spring flowers are visited by bees, and the red winter fruit attracts birds. ## Landscape Use Use this holly as an evergreen screen, hedge, foundation planting, or specimen. Its dense, prickly foliage can also form a barrier, while the bright fruit adds winter color. ## Maintenance Water deeply during the first growing season, then water when the top two inches of soil become dry. After establishment, occasional shaping is usually enough to maintain the desired outline. Watch for common holly pests and leaf spot, especially where plants are stressed.