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Holly-for-Zone-5.jpg

Holly for Zone 5

Are there any holly plants that are good for zone 5?

Try our native holly often called winterberry or Michigan holly (Ilex verticillata). It does lose its leaves in the winter but the fruit display is spectacular. The variety Red Sprite has preformed well at several botanical gardens in the Great Lakes. Be sure to plant at least one male pollinator such as Jim Dandy or Apollo for every 5 female plants for a fruit display. Blue Prince and Blue Princess are among the hardiest of the evergreen hollies. Blue Girl and Blue Boy are supposed to be equally hardy and a little faster growing. As I mentioned, you need both the male and female plants to have fruit. Plant the evergreen holly in a protected location free from winter wind and sun. Grow in moist but well drained soil and mulch for best results.

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