Steeds Japanese Holly

Ilex crenata ‘Steeds’

Description

Dense green foliage, a neat upright form, and virtually no upkeep…with the Steeds Japanese Holly, you get a full landscape transformation in one sleek package. Plus, unlike many other varieties, it offers extra interest with small white flowers and ornamental berries.

This small black fruit emerges throughout the winter, creating a unique centerpiece for graceful wildlife in your garden. From low shrubbery and hedging to tall groundcovers, the Steeds’ habit, steady growth rate, and smaller leaves make it well-suited for any area.

Planted in groups, the Steeds’ well-branched, pyramidal forms mold together to form a polished, tidy sea of rich evergreen color. And you get it all without excessive pruning or care.

Planting

Your Steeds Japanese Holly Shrub is highly adaptable, but it’s important to select the right location – preferably one that receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day and with well-drained soil. After selecting a location, dig a hole that’s two to three times the size of your shrub’s root ball, place your shrub, then backfill the soil while tamping down the soil to avoid air pockets. After planting, water to settle your shrub’s roots.

Watering

Water your Steeds Holly weekly, or more often in extreme heat. If you’re not sure when to water your shrub, simply check its surrounding soil down to about 2 or 3 inches. If the soil here is dry, water your shrub.

Fertilizing

Feed your Steeds Holly Shrub with a general-purpose fertilizer in early spring.

Pruning

If you want a neater appearance for your Steeds Holly Shrub, prune or shear annually in winter to shape it.

Pollination

You will need both to produce berries on the female plant. However, hollies are hard to tell apart when they are not fruiting, and we can’t guarantee whether you will receive a male or female. For best results, we suggest planting in groups to enjoy berries on the female plants and lush greenery on both year-round.