Doctor Kassab Holly

Doctor Kassab Holly (Ilex x 'Doctor Kassab')

Doctor Kassab Holly (Ilex x 'Doctor Kassab') is a robust male holly cultivar selected specifically as a pollinator for female Ilex hybrids such as 'Nellie R. Stevens' and other broadleaf evergreen varieties. While it does not produce berries, it plays a vital functional role in landscape design by ensuring heavy fruit set on compatible females, all while maintaining a clean, symmetrical form.

Distinctive Features

'Doctor Kassab' is an upright, evergreen shrub that typically grows 15 to 20 feet tall with a broad pyramidal habit. Its deep green, glossy foliage resembles that of 'Nellie R. Stevens' and holds its color year-round. Small white flowers appear in spring, supplying the necessary pollen for female hollies planted nearby. Its uniform shape and low maintenance requirements make it a discreet yet essential part of a successful holly planting.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Functional role as pollinator enhances the display of berry-producing hollies
• Privacy Screens: Tall, evergreen structure works well in hedging applications
• Mixed Borders: Blends seamlessly into broadleaf evergreen groupings
• Native-Inspired Landscapes: Provides year-round structure and ecological value
• Pollination Zones: Best when sited within 50 feet of compatible female hollies

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture during establishment; becomes drought tolerant with age
• Pruning: Minimal; prune in late winter or early spring to maintain form
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced evergreen fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Pollination: Serves as a male pollen source for Ilex x 'Nellie R. Stevens' and similar cultivars

Why Choose Doctor Kassab Holly?

• Essential Pollinator: Ensures abundant berry production in female hybrid hollies
• Evergreen Form: Provides reliable structure throughout all seasons
• Low Maintenance: Requires little intervention after establishment
• Tough and Adaptable: Tolerates a variety of landscape conditions
• Focal Point: Quietly supports ornamental plantings with its vital functional role

Ilex x 'Doctor Kassab' offers reliable pollination and year-round structure, making it an indispensable companion for female berry-producing hollies in both formal and naturalistic landscapes.