Shrubs
Ilex x meserveae 'Mesid'
Blue Maid holly
Dark blue-green, spiny leaves form a dense, conical evergreen shrub. White spring flowers can develop into plentiful red berries when a compatible male supplies pollen. Its substantial size is useful for screens and backgrounds where winter foliage and fruit can be appreciated.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun to part shade
- Mature size
- 8–13 ft. tall × 5–8 ft. wide
- Water
- Moist, well-drained soil
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 4–9
Sizes & prices
- #3Blue Maid Holly - larger leaf w/big red berry$59.99
- #7Blue Maid Holly - larger leaf w/big red berry$69.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Keep in mind: Ornamental holly berries are not edible.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Evergreen.
Growing & care
- Soil
- Slightly acidic soil; avoid persistently soggy roots.
- Pruning
- Shape lightly in mid- to late summer if needed; heavy trimming can remove berries.
- Berry production
- Female selection; plant a compatible male holly nearby for berries.
Sources & photo credits
Photo: Andy Mabbett · CC BY-SA 3.0
Image notes: Blue Maid holly. Representative plant; resized and re-encoded, not cropped.
Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.