Key features
Final size4m x 2.5m in 20 years
FoliageBlue-green spiny leaves year-round (evergreen)
FlowersSmall white flowers in spring
FruitOrnamental red berries in autumn
PositionFull sun to part shade
SoilPrefers well-draining soil
Description
Ilex meserveae ‘Blue Maid’ is an evergreen shrub with a conical, dense habit, typically growing to a height of 4 metres and a spread of 2.5 metres. It features striking, spiny foliage with a dark bluish-green colour, providing a lovely contrast to the small white flowers that bloom in spring. In autumn, red berries appear, attracting wildlife to the garden. This blue holly is extremely hardy, tolerating moist but well-drained soils, and thrives in both full sun and partial shade.
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
