Robin Red Holly

Robin Red Holly (Ilex x 'Conin')

Robin Red Holly (Ilex x 'Conin') is a vigorous female evergreen holly from the Red Holly series, prized for its upright pyramidal form, bright red new growth, and heavy berry production in fall. With its refined structure and bold color transitions, this cultivar serves as an eye-catching focal point while also offering reliable function as a privacy screen or hedge.

Distinctive Features

'Robin' grows 15 to 20 feet tall and 8 to 10 feet wide, forming a dense, pyramidal shape with minimal pruning. New foliage emerges with a distinct reddish hue in spring before maturing to a rich, glossy green. In fall, clusters of bright red berries appear on female plants when a male pollinator is nearby. The dramatic foliage contrast and strong form make this cultivar especially versatile in both residential and commercial landscapes.

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: Vibrant foliage and upright habit create visual impact year-round
• Privacy Screening: Dense evergreen form offers consistent coverage
• Foundation Planting: Suitable for large homes, entryways, or commercial sites
• Formal Landscapes: Naturally structured shape fits architectural garden designs
• Wildlife Gardens: Berries attract birds in fall and winter

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during the first growing season; becomes more drought tolerant over time
• Pruning: Little required; prune lightly in late winter to shape if needed
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced, acid-forming evergreen fertilizer in spring
• Mulching: Helps retain moisture and moderate soil temperature
• Pollination: Requires a male pollinator such as Ilex x 'Edward J. Stevens' for berry production

Why Choose Robin Red Holly?

• Red New Growth: Colorful foliage transition adds seasonal interest
• Bold Evergreen Form: Tall and structured for screening or standalone use
• Reliable Berry Set: Heavy fruiting when properly pollinated
• Low Maintenance: Naturally clean habit with minimal pruning
• Focal Point: Combines ornamental appeal with functional performance

Ilex x 'Conin' Robin Red Holly offers a bold combination of foliage color, dense form, and winter berries, making it a versatile and attractive evergreen for landscape structure and seasonal contrast.