Oakleaf Holly

About this plant

Known botanically as *Ilex x 'Oakleaf Red'*, the Oakleaf Holly brings year-round structure and beauty to any landscape. Its distinctive dark green, oak-shaped leaves are a delightful departure from typical holly foliage, offering a refined texture. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this holly is exceptionally versatile and low-maintenance. It's an excellent choice for creating privacy screens, adding a formal touch as an upright specimen, or forming a classic evergreen hedge. Its dense growth provides superb shelter for birds, too. As a female cultivar, 'Oakleaf Red' will produce an abundance of bright red berries in fall and winter, provided a male holly pollinator (*Ilex opaca* or another *Ilex x attenuata* type) is nearby. These vibrant berries offer a pop of color against the deep green foliage and are a welcome food source for birds, adding another layer of interest to your garden.

Care & maintenance

Generally low-maintenance once established. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain desired shape and size. Can tolerate a range of soil conditions, but prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. Fertilize in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer if growth is weak.