Blue Maid Holly

Blue Maid Holly, Ilex x meserveae 'Blue Maid', is a highly ornamental, tall, pyramidal evergreen shrub featuring dramatic, deep blue-green, holly-shaped foliage without spines. The lustrous, glossy foliage makes a lovely backdrop when this plant produces an abundance of ornamental red berries. 

Blue Maid Holly grows in Hardiness Zones 5-8, reaching heights of 15 -18 ft with spreads of 8-10 ft. Blue Maid Holly is bred for winter hardiness and heat tolerance. Birds love its brilliant red berries, and its beautiful branches are quite attractive when used in your favorite seasonal holiday decor. Blue Maid Holly is lovely as a focal point specimen and spectacular when planted as a colorful, blue-green evergreen hedge. 

Blue Maid Holly Care

Blue Maid Holly is a relatively adaptable shrub once established. Plant it in partial to full sun; in hot climates, keep it protected from hot afternoon sun; in cooler climates, Blue Maid Holly can handle full sun for 8 hours per day. It thrives in organically rich, well-draining soils that have a slightly acidic pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Water deeply and regularly during its first year to get its extensive root system off to a healthy start.  

Once established, Blue Maid Holly is fairly maintenance-free. Give it a light pruning once a season in early spring to maintain the desired shape and to remove any damaged foliage.  

Blue Maid Holly Spacing

Plant Blue Maid Holly as a single, tall focal point, in pairs, flanking an entranceway to boost curb appeal, or as a border for a lovely privacy hedge for year-round evergreen interest. Space plants to allow for the eventual mature spread of 8-10 feet; be sure no obstructions or other plants are between 4-5 feet in each direction from the center of the rootball.