Castle Rouge® Blue Holly

Ilex x meserveae 'HACH1'

Proven Winners®

Male Pollinator Produces Abundant Blue Holly Berries on Female Plants Within 50 Feet
Thrives in Zones 5-7
Grows 5-8 ft Tall, 4-5 ft Wide
Excellent Privacy Screen or Hedge
Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Songbirds

$26⁵⁹

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Castle Rouge® Blue Holly is the boldest male holly you’ll ever grow, and one you’ll actually want to feature front and center in your landscape. Its glossy dark green leaves flush with a stunning burgundy-red glow as new growth emerges, and in winter the entire shrub takes on a dramatic dark burgundy coat that provides vivid cold-season interest. Growing 5–8 feet tall, this upright, columnar male holly pollinates all nearby female hollies within 50 feet, including the full Castle Series, encouraging abundant red berry production.

Dramatic burgundy-red new growth turns dark green, then returns burgundy in winter
Male pollinator, one plant pollinates up to 7 female holly plants within 50 feet
Upright, columnar habit, 5–8 ft. tall, 4–5 ft. wide, strong structural presence
Glossy, dark green summer foliage with exceptional ornamental quality
Outstanding as a hedge, screen, foundation plant, or specimen
Tolerates clay soils and part shade
Hardy in Zones 5–8

Castle Rouge® Blue Holly thrives in full sun to part shade with average, moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It tolerates clay soils and is adaptable to urban conditions. In hot climates, afternoon shade helps preserve foliage quality; in windy winter climates, a sheltered site is beneficial. Water regularly until established. No heavy pruning is required, the natural columnar form is attractive on its own. Plant near Castle Keep® or other female hollies for spectacular berry displays. Order this showstopping male holly today!

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Growing Zones 5-7

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Frequently Asked Questions

How tall and wide will Castle Rouge® Blue Holly grow at maturity?

Castle Rouge® Blue Holly reaches 5-8 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide at maturity with an upright, columnar growth habit. This makes it excellent for tight spaces where you need vertical interest without spreading width. Plan for adequate spacing when planting near walkways or structures.

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

Water newly planted Castle Rouge® Blue Holly 2-3 times per week for the first month, then reduce to weekly deep watering. Once established after the first growing season, it becomes quite drought tolerant. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until roots are well-established.

Is Castle Rouge® Blue Holly a fast-growing or slow-growing plant?

Castle Rouge® Blue Holly has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching its mature size of 5-8 feet tall in several years rather than quickly. This steady growth habit contributes to its strong structural presence and naturally attractive columnar form. Allow adequate spacing when planting since it will reach 4-5 feet wide at maturity.

Can Castle Rouge® Blue Holly be shipped to my location during winter months?

Castle Rouge® Blue Holly can be shipped during winter months to zones 5-8 where it's hardy. Since it's dormant in winter, this is actually an ideal planting time in milder zones. Check your specific zone and local frost dates before ordering for optimal establishment.

What are the most common pests or diseases that affect Castle Rouge® Blue Holly?

Blue hollies are generally pest-resistant, but watch for scale insects, leaf miners, and spider mites in hot weather. Root rot can occur in poorly drained soils, so ensure proper drainage in Zones 5-8. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering help prevent most issues with this hardy cultivar available at naturehills.com.