Holly, Inkberry Shamrock

Description

Inkberry Hollies are slow-growing, upright, evergreen shrub. It is native to wetland areas and tolerates very wet conditions. It foliage is dark green, sprinless, and relatively small. Insignificant flowers, if pollinated, make way for black berries that emerge in the fall and persist until Spring. This plant is dioecious meaning that the plant must be female for fruit production, but a male MUST be in close proximity for correct pollination. The Shamrock cultivar is known to have a more rounded, compact form staying under 4’ tall. This selection also tends to sucker less than its respective species. They prefer consistently moist, acidic soils in full sun, but can tolerate heavy shade. They are commonly used in water gardens, shrub borders, as well as some naturalized hedges.