Inkberry holly (Ilex glabra), also called gallberry, is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub (USDA hardiness zones 4-9). Inkberry grows 5 to 8 feet tall. In the wild, it spreads in the ground via root suckers to form colonies. The species is native from coastal Canada to Florida, west to Louisiana at home in sandy woodlands and edges of swamps and bogs.

The dark green glossy leaves (to 1.5 inches long) have smooth margins and are spineless. Foliage stays attractive in winter unless temperatures dip below 0 °F. Greenish white flowers appear in spring, but are mostly inconspicuous. Jet black berry-like drupes (3/8 inch diameter) mature in early fall and persist throughout late winter into early spring unless consumed by birds and other wildlife.

Inkberry holly is undemanding. This durable shrub grows in average, medium to wet, acidic soils and in full sun to partial shade. It is one of few holly species that tolerates wet soils. Inkberries are separately sexed (dioecious), e.g. either male or female plants. Female plants accept pollen from a male plant to produce the berry-like fruits (called “drupes”).

Inkberry hollies are popular hedging shrubs the popular boxwood (Buxus spp.) look. Growth rate is greater than boxwoods and are not susceptible to the dreaded boxwood blight disease. Prune in early spring before new growth begins. Hollies need only minimal pruning unless used for hedging. Remove root suckers if undesired.

No serious insect or disease problems trouble inkberry hollies. Leaf spotting occurs in wet summers. Spider mites may appear, especially during dry weather.  Leaf chlorosis (yellowing) may occur in alkaline (high pH) soils. When shopping for inkberry hollies, avoid varieties that become “bare-legged” or have “raise their skirts”. See list below

4 to 5 foot Category

‘Densa’ – 4 -5 feet high at maturity (with a slightly greater width)

‘Nordic’ – dark green foliage color and a distinct 5 foot tall broad pyramidal habit.

‘Shamrock’ – compact 5 feet high and wide, and densely branched.

2 to 3 foot Ultra-Dwarf Category

Gem Box® – new dwarf, dense ball-shaped form; small, dainty, dark green leaves with attractive red tips during the spring flush.

Strongbox® – very compact (2-3 feet tall), rounded form, densely branched with handsome evergreen evergreen hedge.

Mass or group several inkberry hollies as a shrub border, a low foundation planting. Species inkberries will naturalize in moist woodland gardens or near streams or ponds.