Eva Monheim
Family
Aquifoliaceae
Botanical Name
Ilex x meserveae 'Honey Maid' PP12060
Plant Common Name
Blue Holly, Honey Maid Holly, Variegated Blue Holly
General Description
Selected for its variegated leaves, this mutation of the hybrid holly Blue Maid® is a medium-sized spreading broadleaf evergreen shrub. The glossy spiny blue-green leaves are ornamented with an irregular creamy-white margin. Inconspicuous white flowers in spring give rise to small round berries that ripen glossy red in fall and persist through much of winter. They are often consumed in late winter by hungry birds. The purplish green stems are also attractive. The habit is relatively compact. A related male holly such as 'Blue Prince' is required for pollination and fruiting.
This hybrid holly prefers full to partial sun and moist, well drained, acid soil. It also appreciates a site sheltered from cold winds. It eventually attains considerable size and should be sited or pruned accordingly. Use 'Honey Maid' as a specimen plant, in foundation plantings, or in mixed borders.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 5
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USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 9
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Sunset Zone
3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17
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Plant Type
Broadleaf Evergreen
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Bloom Time
Late Spring
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Native To
Hybrid Origin
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
White
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Fruit Color
Yellow, Red
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Dark Green
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Bark Color
Brown
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Bark Texture
Smooth
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Usage
Feature Plant, Foundation, Hedges, Mixed Border, Screening / Wind Break
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Sharp or Has Thorns
Yes
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Birds
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Self-Sowing
No