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Castle Keep® Blue Holly

Ilex x meserveae 'SMNIFA'

  • Compact Castle Keep® Blue Holly Needs No Pruning for a Naturally Polished, Rounded Form
  • Thrives in Zones 5-7
  • Grows 3-5 ft Tall, 3-4 ft Wide
  • Top Pick for Privacy Screen or Hedge
  • Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Songbirds
Regular price $2659
Shipping calculated at checkout.
In Stock
Outside your zone (): not guaranteed Why

Rated for zones 5 to 7. Great in a pot brought indoors for winter, or as an annual.

Houseplant: grows indoors in any zone
Will it grow in your garden?

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Plant Size

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Attracts Birds, Attracts pollinators, Cold hardy, Container Friendly, Deer-resistant, Evergreen, Full Sun, Hedge/Screen, Low Maintenance, Non-invasive, Ornamental Berries/Fruit, Shade Tolerant
Hardiness Zone 5a to 7b
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Height 3-5 ft
Width 3-4 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Clay, Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate Slow
Growth Habit Bushy, Upright
Blooms In Spring
Flower Color White
Foliage Color Green
Pet Safety Toxic to pets
Suitable Space Outdoors
Plant Name Holly
Botanical Name Ilex x meserveae 'SMNIFA'
Species x meserveae
Cultivar SMNIFA
Class Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

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This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.
H
Happy
Extremely Hardy

I bought 40 of these plants around July last year. They came on time and packaged securely. Despite being shipped at the height of the summer heat, every single one arrived healthy and even had some berries. During the last days of fall, the rabbits ate down every one - no leaf was spared. I thought I had lost them all! The next spring, however, they ALL made a come back and are now doing well. We've added a protective mesh around them to keep the rabbits away. I live in Zone 4b

Dear Happy C.,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful journey with your plants! We're delighted to hear that despite the intense summer heat and adventurous rabbits, your plants' resilience shone through — coming back strong and healthy in spring is a true testament to their hardiness, especially in Zone 4b. Your use of protective mesh is a great solution to keep critters at bay and help your garden thrive.

If you ever need tips on further protecting or nurturing your plants as the seasons change, please feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to provide advice tailored to your region and garden challenges.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

D
Debbie
Holly Topiary

Beautiful trees

Dear Debbie C.,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts on your Holly Topiary! We’re delighted to hear that you find the trees beautiful—they truly bring such timeless charm to any space. If you ever have questions on shaping or caring for your topiary to keep it looking its best, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We also have some great tips and care guides available on our website to help your holly thrive.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

R
Randy
Arrived healthy.

Received my shrubs about six weeks ago. They arrived in great condition, I planted them the same day and they are doing well.

Dear Randy B.,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! We’re thrilled to hear that your shrubs arrived healthy and that they are thriving after being planted. Providing quality plants that arrive in great condition is something we truly take pride in.

If you have any questions or need tips on caring for your shrubs as they continue to grow, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help ensure your garden flourishes beautifully.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

G
Gilda
Happy

Received it in a timely manner and it was in excellent condition. Put it in the ground the day it arrived. It is looking very healthy.

Dear Gilda,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with us! We’re thrilled to hear that your plant arrived quickly and in excellent condition, and it’s wonderful to know it’s already looking healthy in its new home. Your prompt planting truly helps set the stage for a thriving garden, and we’re excited to see it flourish.

If you ever have any questions about care tips or want guidance on helping your plant grow even stronger, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to support your gardening journey!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

G
Gilda
Happy

Received it in a timely manner and it was in excellent condition. Put it in the ground the day it arrived. It is looking very healthy.

Dear Gilda,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear your new plant arrived quickly and in excellent condition, and that it’s thriving already in your garden—that’s such great news. It sounds like you’ve got a true green thumb!

If you ever need tips on keeping it healthy or if you’d like to explore other plants to complement your growing collection, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your garden's journey every step of the way.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

G
Great
Perfect

I bought 2 to put in the back corners of my yard, near the back fence. The classic bright green leaves & red berries in winter are so beautiful. Thanks Nature Hills!

Dear Great C.,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Castle Spire® Blue Holly! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that its bright green leaves and winter red berries are adding beauty to your yard. Placing them in your back corners near the fence is a fantastic idea—these hollies really do create striking focal points that brighten any space, especially during the colder months.

If you ever need tips on keeping your hollies thriving, remember they prefer well-drained soil and benefit from a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage lush growth and vibrant berries. Also, occasional pruning after winter helps maintain their elegant shape.

We’re here anytime you have questions or want plant suggestions for other corners of your garden.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

G
Great
Perfect

I bought 2 to put in the back corners of my yard, near the back fence. The classic bright green leaves & red berries in winter are so beautiful. Thanks Nature Hills!

Dear Great winter color,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that your Castle Spire® Blue Holly plants are thriving in those back corners of your yard and adding such beautiful winter color with their bright green leaves and vibrant red berries. Holly is truly special during the colder months, brightening outdoor spaces with its classic charm.

If you ever want to keep them at their best, be sure to provide well-draining soil and some morning sun to keep the leaves glossy. Also, occasional mulching helps preserve soil moisture, especially through winter. And if birds take a liking to those berries as much as we imagine, consider adding a little bird feeder nearby—it’s a perfect way to keep your garden lively all season!

Thanks again for trusting Nature Hills, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or future garden plans.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

B
Beaver
Need more hollies

I put 3 castle spire holly bushes along a fence a few years ago. Now i'm back to buy more. I might also look at the nellie stevens holly.

Hi Beaver,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Castle Spire® Blue Holly bushes! We’re delighted to hear that those plants have thrived along your fence and that you’re looking to expand your garden with more hollies. Nellie Stevens holly is a fantastic choice as well, with its glossy leaves and vibrant red berries—perfect for adding diversity and year-round interest.

If you’d like tips on planting your new hollies, be sure to plant them in well-drained soil with full to partial sunlight, and water regularly especially in the first year as they establish. For spacing, allowing a few feet between each holly prevents overcrowding and promotes healthy growth. And feel free to explore our Holly Care Guide on the Nature Hills website for detailed watering, pruning, and winter protection advice specific to each varietal.

We’re thrilled to support your efforts in creating a beautiful, lasting garden. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions as you choose your additional plants!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

B
Beaver
Need more hollies

I put 3 castle spire holly bushes along a fence a few years ago. Now i'm back to buy more. I might also look at the nellie stevens holly.

Hello Beaver,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! It’s fantastic to hear that your Castle Spire® Blue Holly bushes have grown well along your fence and that you’re looking to add even more to your garden. Castle Spire® really is a stunning evergreen with its upright growth and rich blue-green foliage—a lovely choice that creates a beautiful screening effect.

The Nellie Stevens Holly is also an excellent selection, especially if you’re thinking about adding some variety to your landscape. Known for its glossy dark leaves and bright red berries, it makes a great compliment to the Castle Spire® especially for winter interest and wildlife attraction.

If you want to mix them or keep doubling down on the cast spires, do pay attention to spacing to give those holly bushes plenty of room for growth—Castle Spire® tends to have a narrower column habit, roughly 4 to 5 feet wide. For care, both hollies appreciate well-drained soil and some light afternoon shade in very hot climates for best foliage retention.

If you’d like, we can also provide tips on fertilizing and pruning as your planting grows. Feel free to reach out anytime!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

S
ST.
pyramidal holly

I call this plant my Christmas tree holly as it is shaped just like an evergreen tree. The Christmas lights look very bright against the dark green foliage. Castle Spire has such a classic look. I love it!

Hi ST. Nick,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Castle Spire® Blue Holly! We love hearing how perfectly it fits your holiday decor as a charming “Christmas tree holly.” Its evergreen shape and deep green foliage truly do make a classic backdrop for those vibrant Christmas lights—a combination that spreads a lot of joy and festive cheer.

If you’re looking to keep your Castle Spire® looking its best through the seasons, remember to prune it lightly after the holidays to maintain that elegant pyramidal form. It thrives with well-drained soil and partial to full sun, so a sunny spot near festive lights sounds ideal. Should you ever want to explore companion plants to complement its beauty, consider evergreen shrubs like boxwoods or hemlocks to continue the classic holiday vibe.

Thanks again for your thoughtful review, ST. Nick! We’re here if you need any other suggestions or guidance to keep your garden thriving.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

S
St.
pyramidal holly

I call this plant my Christmas tree holly as it is shaped just like an evergreen tree. The Christmas lights look very bright against the dark green foliage. Castle Spire has such a classic look. I love it!

Dear St. N.,

Thank you so much for sharing your delightful description of the Castle Spire® Blue Holly! We’re thrilled to hear it’s become your “Christmas tree holly” and adds such a classic and festive touch to your holiday décor. The contrast of the bright lights against its rich, dark green foliage truly makes it a stunning centerpiece.

If you’re looking to keep its lovely shape over the seasons, pruning lightly after the holidays can encourage healthy growth and maintain that perfect pyramidal form. Also, giving it good moisture and placing it where it gets ample sunlight will keep it looking vibrant year-round.

We’re so glad Castle Spire® has found a special place in your garden (and holiday traditions)! Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever want tips on care or companion plant ideas.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

G
Gary
Nice Tree

I chose this holly because I was looking for an evergreen that didn't get too tall or too wide. I was very happy and surprised that a holly fit the bill. It will fit perfectly in a corner of our yard.

Hi Gary,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Castle Spire® Blue Holly! We’re thrilled to hear it fits perfectly in the corner of your yard and matches your desire for an evergreen with a manageable size. It truly is a wonderfully compact plant that adds year-round beauty without taking over your space.

As it settles in, keep an eye on its watering needs, especially during dry spells, to help it establish strong roots. Mulching around the base can also conserve moisture and keep the roots cool. If you ever want tips on care or companion plants that complement your holly, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

G
Gary
Nice Tree

I chose this holly because I was looking for an evergreen that didn't get too tall or too wide. I was very happy and surprised that a holly fit the bill. It will fit perfectly in a corner of our yard.

Hi Gary,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Castle Spire® Blue Holly! We’re delighted to hear that this elegant evergreen site fits perfectly into your garden space and meets your size expectations. Rounding a yard corner with a tree that grows thoughtfully certainly brings both beauty and structure.

If you ever need tips on caring for your Blue Holly—such as pruning for shape or best watering practices—please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to provide guidance to keep your graft thriving for years to come.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What planting zones is Castle Keep® Blue Holly hardy in?

  • Castle Keep® Blue Holly is hardy in USDA zones 5-7. This semi-dwarf evergreen shrub tolerates a wide range of climates from northern areas with cold winters down to warmer southern regions. Check your specific zone before planting to ensure long-term success.

How tall and wide will Castle Keep® Blue Holly get at maturity?

  • Castle Keep® Blue Holly reaches 3-5 feet tall and wide at maturity. This semi-dwarf holly maintains a naturally rounded form without pruning, making it ideal for foundation plantings and containers. Shop at Nature Hills for this compact, four-season evergreen.

Does Castle Keep® Blue Holly prefer full sun, partial shade, or full shade?

  • Castle Keep® Blue Holly thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. This adaptable evergreen performs well in both light environments, making it versatile for various landscape positions. Plant it where it receives at least morning sun for optimal foliage color and density.

How often should I water Castle Keep® Blue Holly after planting?

  • Water deeply 2-3 times per week for the first growing season to establish roots. Castle Keep® Blue Holly needs consistent moisture but avoid waterlogged soil. Check soil moisture regularly and adjust watering based on rainfall and temperature.

When does Castle Keep® Blue Holly bloom and what color are the flowers?

  • Castle Keep® Blue Holly produces small, inconspicuous white flowers in late spring. The flowers aren't the main attraction - this female holly is grown for its glossy evergreen foliage and bright red berries that follow when a male pollinator is nearby. Plant Castle Rouge® or Castle Wall® within 50 feet for berry production, available at naturehills.com.

Is Castle Keep® Blue Holly deer resistant?

  • Yes, Castle Keep® Blue Holly is deer resistant, making it an excellent choice for areas with browsing pressure. This hardy evergreen maintains its glossy foliage year-round in Zones 5-7 without deer damage. Plant it confidently in foundation beds or as hedging where deer are a concern.

Can Castle Keep® Blue Holly be shipped to my location year-round?

  • Castle Keep® Blue Holly can be shipped during optimal planting windows, typically spring and fall in zones 5-7. Shipping timing depends on your specific location and local weather conditions. Check the product page for current availability in your area and recommended planting dates.

How much pruning does Castle Keep® Blue Holly require?

  • Castle Keep® Blue Holly requires no regular pruning to maintain its naturally rounded form. This semi-dwarf holly grows 3-5 feet tall and wide with a polished appearance year-round. Simply remove any damaged or wayward branches in late winter if needed.