Ilex ‘Nellie R. Stevens’ PA

Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens' PA (on grafts / on trunk) is a decorative form of evergreen ilex, highly prized for its elegant appearance, glossy foliage and spectacular red fruits in the cold season.

General characteristics

• Plant type: evergreen shrub, formed on trunk (PA)

• Crown: dense, compact, well branched, with a natural conical or oval shape

• Leaves: large, dark green, glossy, slightly spiny on the edges

• Flowers: small, white, discreet, appear in spring

• Fruits: decorative red berries (autumn–winter), appear on female plants, without requiring additional pollinator (self-fertile hybrid)

• Growth: moderate

Dimensions

• Height at maturity:
  – with a trunk: the crown reaches 1.5–2.5 m

• Crown width: 1.2–2 m (depending on trim)

Planting conditions and care

• Exposure: sun or partial shade

• Soil: fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral

• Watering: regular in the early years; later it resists moderate drought well

• Resistance: very good in frost and urban pollution

• Pruning: tolerates training and maintenance cuts very well

Decorative advantages

• elegant look all year round

• persistent red fruit in winter, strong contrast with green foliage

• ideal for modern, classic gardens or representative spaces

• form on others – perfect for vertical accents and paved areas

Uses in landscaping

• solitary accent plant

• near alleys, entrances, terraces

• in formal or contemporary gardens

• also suitable for large, decorative pots