Ilex Schilling

Ilex Schilling - Ilex vomitoria 'Schilling's Dwarf', commonly known as Schilling's Holly or Dwarf Yaupon Holly, is a dense, low growing, male evergreen shrub prized for its compact mounding form, fine dark green leaves, and exceptional toughness. 

Plant Profile & Characteristics 
• Size: Reaches a mature height of 2 to 4 feet (occasionally up to 6 feet if unpruned) and spreads 4 to 6 feet wide.
• Foliage: Small, smooth, oval, glossy dark-green leaves on fine silvery-gray twigs.
• Flowers & Fruit: Produces small, inconspicuous spring flowers. Because it is a selected male cultivar, it does not produce berries but serves as an effective pollinator for nearby female yaupon hollies.
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate; naturally maintains a neat, dense, rounded shape with minimal assistance.

Care & Growing Requirements 
• USDA Zones: Hardy in zones 7 through 10.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun keeps the growth densest.
• Soil: Highly adaptable; tolerates sandy, clay, or loamy textures, and performs well in soils ranging from dry to wet once established.
• Tolerances: Highly drought-tolerant, heat-tolerant, and salt-tolerant (ideal for coastal areas), as well as resistant to deer.
• Pruning: Rarely required, but responds exceptionally well to light shearing or heavy structural pruning if a formal geometric hedge is desired