Ilex cornuta 'Needlepoint'

Needlepoint Holly

Growing best in rich, well-drained, slightly acid soil, 'Needlepoint' does well in full sun or part shade. However, flowering and subsequent fruiting is reduced in shady locations. This holly is drought-tolerant and easy to grow once established. It is well suited for low-maintenance landscapes which receive little or no irrigation or fertilizer after plants are established. Plants can eventually grow to nearly 20 feet tall. This plant is considered mostly allergy free and causes little or no allergy problems in most people.

This is a common hedge plant for the south. A dense rounded silhouette develops without clipping making it well suited for planting along a foundation. It is often used as a mass planting on commercial properties to form a low shrub mass around parking lots. One yearly pruning can easily keep this plant in bounds in most landscape settings, unless it is clipped into a formal hedge. Three or four clippings may be needed for hedges. It shears fairly well, but will thin slightly toward the base, especially if not located in full sun.

Height 10-15 Feet

Spread 6-10 Feet

USDA Hardiness Zone 7A to 9A

Characteristics & Attributes