Inkberry Holly

About this plant

Ilex glabra 'Shamrock' is a superior cultivar of Inkberry Holly, celebrated for its exceptionally dense, compact growth habit and refined appearance. Unlike some inkberry varieties, 'Shamrock' maintains a neat, rounded shape without becoming leggy, making it an excellent choice for formal plantings or low hedges. Its small, dark green leaves provide year-round interest and a soft texture that complements a wide range of garden styles. From tiny white flowers in late spring emerge small, persistent black berries that add subtle winter appeal, especially when contrasting against a snowy backdrop. These berries are also a valuable food source for various bird species, bringing life and activity to your garden during the colder months. Hardy and adaptable, 'Shamrock' Inkberry thrives in a range of conditions and is particularly well-suited for moisture-retentive areas, including rain gardens or alongside water features. Its evergreen nature ensures continuous visual appeal, making it a foundation plant or an excellent substitute for boxwood in areas prone to boxwood blight.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires minimal pruning to maintain shape; prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Tolerant of both wet and dry conditions once established, but prefers consistently moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Mulch annually to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.