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Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly

Ilex crenata 'MAD-IC-I' PP32,035

First Editions®
  • Compact Mounded Form Stays Naturally Full Without Constant Pruning or Shaping
  • Thrives in Zones 6-8
  • Grows 5-7 ft Tall, 3-4 ft Wide
  • Deer Resistant, Disease Resistant, Drought Tolerant
  • Great Choice for Hedge or Foundation Planting
$9307
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: This holly performs best in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct light to maintain its signature tight and compact habit. While it tolerates partial shade, you may notice the growth becomes more open and less "chubby" if it does not get enough light.
  • Soil: It prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. If you are dealing with heavy clay, mix in some compost or plant in a slight mound to ensure water drains away from the roots, as "wet feet" can quickly lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, provide deep watering twice a week to help the roots establish deep in the ground. Once mature, the Chubby Hubby Japanese Holly is relatively drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during a hot summer can cause the glossy leaves to dull or drop. Think of consistent watering as the best way to maintain that vibrant, healthy luster on the foliage.

Pruning Tips

Since this evergreen blooms on old wood, the best time for a trim is in late winter or very early spring before new growth kicks in. Use sharp shears to give it a light haircut if you want to maintain a specific size or shape. This timing is important because it allows the plant to put all its energy into the fresh spring flush without the stress of healing wounds during the heat of summer.

Fertilizer Needs

Feed your holly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring. Avoid applying high-nitrogen fertilizers after midsummer because this can stimulate soft new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost. Proper spring feeding ensures the plant has the nutrients it needs to produce that dense, dark green growth gardeners love.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4 Week of March 30th
Zone 5 Week of March 16th
Zone 6-12 Week of March 2nd


Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50 $9.99
$50 - $99.99 $14.99
$100 - $149.99 $16.99
$150 - $198.99 $24.99
$199+ FREE

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  • Protects gardens from invasive pests and diseases

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First Editions® Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly

Looking for a plump yet tidy, low-maintenance evergreen that provides year-round structure and beauty? Meet First Editions® Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly PP#32035 (Ilex crenata 'MAD-IC-I') — a dense, rounded shrub with lush, glossy green foliage that stays vibrant through all seasons. The compact, mounded habit makes it a perfect alternative to Boxwood, offering reliable color, texture, and resilience with minimal upkeep.

This cold-hardy and deer-resistant Japanese Holly thrives in full sun to partial shade, growing 3-4 feet tall and wide, making it ideal for privacy borders, foundation plantings, hedges, and container gardens. Beautiful for framing an entryway, line a walkway, or add structure to flower beds, Chubby Hubby™ delivers polished elegance in any landscape!

Why You'll Love Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly

  • Compact, Rounded Growth – Naturally forms a dense, tidy shape, eliminating the need for frequent pruning.
  • Evergreen Foliage – Deep green, glossy leaves of this Japanese Holly stay vibrant year-round for continuous beauty.
  • Cold Hardy & Adaptable – Thrives in USDA zones 6-8, tolerating a variety of growing conditions.
  • Deer & Pest Resistant – A reliable choice for gardens where deer tend to roam.
  • Low Maintenance & Drought Tolerant – Once established, requires minimal watering and care.
  • Perfect for Borders & Hedges – Stays neat and compact, great for walkways, driveways, and foundation plantings.
  • Ideal Boxwood Alternative – Offers the same formal look with better disease resistance.
  • Thrives in Containers – Looks fantastic in patio pots, urns, and entryway planters.

Best Ways to Use Chubby Hubby™ in Your Landscape

With its dense, uniform growth and rich green color, this versatile shrub fits seamlessly into any design. Consider planting it to:

  • Frame Entryways & Walkways – Provides a clean, polished look that enhances curb appeal.
  • Line Driveways & Garden Borders – Creates a structured, elegant edge that remains beautiful all year.
  • Enhance Foundation Plantings – A fantastic way to soften the look of your home’s exterior.
  • Fill Gaps in Flower Beds – Works well with Perennials, Roses, and Ornamental Grasses.
  • Create a Low Hedge or Living Fence – Offers privacy and definition without growing too tall.
  • Use in Containers for a Formal Touch – Pairs beautifully with topiaries and seasonal blooms.

Easy Holly Growing & Care Guide

Japanese Hollies are very easy to grow and maintain! Read details here!

  • Sunlight: Grows best in full sun to partial shade; at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily ensures dense growth.
  • Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but adapts to different conditions.
  • Watering: Low to moderate; water regularly until established, then less frequently.
  • Pruning: Minimal pruning needed���trim lightly in early spring to maintain shape.
  • Mulch: Spread a 3-4 inch deep layer of mulch around these plants to combat weeds and retain soil moisture.
  • Spacing: Plant 2-3 feet apart for a seamless, full hedge or border.

Order Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly Today!

For a dense, polished, and effortlessly elegant evergreen, First Editions® Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly is a must-have. Whether you're looking for formal hedging, structural foundation plantings, or a reliable Boxwood alternative, this low-maintenance shrub delivers year-round beauty with minimal effort.

Want a lush, low-maintenance evergreen for year-round beauty? Order your Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly today! Now available at Nature Hills Nursery, bring the timeless charm of Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly to your landscape!

Growing Zones 6-8

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Frequently Asked Questions

How tall and wide does Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly grow at maturity?
  • Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly reaches 3-4 feet tall and wide at maturity. This compact, naturally rounded growth habit makes it perfect for small spaces and formal landscapes. Plan spacing accordingly for hedges or use as a standalone specimen in containers.

Is Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly cold hardy in zone 6 winters?
  • Yes, Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly is cold hardy in USDA zone 6 winters. This resilient evergreen thrives in zones 6-8, maintaining its glossy green foliage year-round even through harsh winter conditions. Shop at Nature Hills for reliable cold-hardy shrubs.

Does Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly require acidic soil, and how do I test mine?
  • Japanese Holly adapts to a wide pH range and doesn't require acidic soil like other hollies. Chubby Hubby™ thrives in zones 6-8 with average, well-draining soil. Test your soil pH with a simple home kit or digital meter for best results.

How often should I water Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly after planting?
  • Water newly planted Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly 2-3 times per week for the first month, then reduce to weekly watering. Once established after the first growing season, this drought-tolerant shrub needs minimal supplemental water. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 2 inches deep.

What fertilizer is best for Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly, and when to apply it?
  • A balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer works perfectly for Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly. Apply once in early spring before new growth begins, then again in mid-summer if needed. This low-maintenance shrub rarely requires heavy feeding once established in zones 6-8, available at naturehills.com.

Is Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly a good boxwood replacement for hedges?
  • Yes, Chubby Hubby™ Japanese Holly is an excellent boxwood replacement for hedges. It offers the same formal, dense appearance but with better disease resistance and cold hardiness in zones 6-8. The 3-4 foot mature size creates perfect privacy borders with minimal pruning needed.
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