Strongbox® Inkberry holly

Strongbox® Inkberry holly is a compact female selection of native inkberry, Ilex glabra, with a dense, naturally rounded mound and evergreen foliage. The [Proven Winners listing](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/ilex/strongbox-inkberry-holly-ilex-glabra) identifies it as ‘ILEXFARROWTRACEY’ (USPP 30,147 and Canadian patent 6,516), with mature height and spread of 2–3 feet and small white spring flowers. Black berries can form when a compatible male pollinator is nearby; [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ilex-glabra/) notes that inkberry fruit is eaten by birds and small mammals. ## Garden Use Use it in part sun to full sun for a low hedge, border, edging, container, mass planting, or specimen. Acidic, well-drained clay or sandy soil suits it, and the species tolerates moist, occasionally wet sites. Green evergreen foliage keeps the shrub structured through winter. ## Maintenance Strongbox needs little care. If shaping is desired, prune in mid- to late spring after new growth has emerged. The Proven Winners listing recommends planting a compatible male Squeeze Box holly within 50 feet to support berry production.