Low Rider Holly

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-4 Feet

Mature Spread

3-4 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 9

Low Rider Holly (Ilex crenata) is a small shrub that grows in a tight, round shape. It reaches no larger than 3 to 4 feet wide and high, so this little holly is ideal for featuring in containers, borders or hedges. It's an evergreen shrub, so it's also a good choice for those gardeners who love to prune and shape plants into topiary. Of course, you don't have to get that creative, and the compact bush can thrive with little attention in zones 6 through 9.

Low Rider Holly also is resistant to most pests and diseases and can tolerate either clay soil or salt in the air. The versatile shrub can perform well for nearly any landscape use. Take advantage of its salt tolerance to form a low hedge or border along a sidewalk or driveway. Use it to screen small objects or as a foundation shrub or hedge along the front of your house for year-round curb appeal.

Low Rider Holly Care

Plant Low Rider Holly in full sun or part shade, digging a hole about two times larger than its container's diameter. Water well and add soil if needed after filling the hole back up. After that, it has low-water needs. Mulch around your holly to help it retain some moisture, especially in summer heat. You can fertilize the shrub once a year in spring to help support new growth. Otherwise, just enjoy this little stunner.

Low Rider Holly Spacing

For a pretty evergreen hedge, plant several Low Rider Holly shrubs together, spacing them about 3 to 4 feet apart from each shrub's center.