Holly Mary Nell

Description: Mary Nell Holly is characterized by its dense, evergreen foliage, which consists of glossy, dark green leaves with serrated margins. The foliage provides year-round interest and serves as a backdrop for the plant's ornamental berries. Female plants produce clusters of bright red berries in fall, which persist through winter, adding color to the landscape and attracting birds.

Size: This holly variety typically grows to a height of 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters) with a spread of 8 to 12 feet (2.4 to 3.7 meters). It has a pyramidal to oval-shaped growth habit, with a dense canopy that provides privacy and screening when planted as a hedge or specimen tree. With regular pruning, it can be maintained at a smaller size or trained into a formal shape.

Best Growing Zones: Mary Nell Holly thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9. It prefers regions with mild winters and moderate summers, though it can tolerate a range of climates. It performs best in areas with well-drained soil and full to partial sun exposure. It is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soil, as long as it's well-drained.

Soil Requirements: This holly variety prefers well-drained soil with good fertility. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, from acidic to slightly alkaline. Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, can improve soil structure and fertility, promoting healthy growth. Regular watering is important, especially during the first year after planting, to help establish a strong root system.

Maintenance: Mary Nell Holly is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established. Pruning is typically done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or overgrown branches and maintain the desired shape and size. Regular fertilization in spring can promote vigorous growth and abundant berry production.