Dragon Slayer Holly

Dragon Slayer Holly (Ilex x aquipernyi 'Dragon Slayer')

Dragon Slayer Holly is a narrow, pyramidal evergreen holly with glossy, spiny dark green foliage that holds a crisp outline year round. Small white spring flowers are followed by abundant scarlet berries in fall when a compatible male holly is nearby, adding seasonal color and wildlife appeal.

Distinctive Features

Hybrid vigor from European and Perny holly parentage delivers dense branching, lustrous leaves, and heavy fruit set with pollination. Slender habit fits tight screening lines and formal accents.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best density and fruiting in at least half day sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil; avoid waterlogged sites.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment, then deep water in extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 8.
• Mature Size: Typically 10 to 20 ft tall and 4 to 6 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Glossy foliage and upright form create a year round anchor.
• Hedges and Screens: Tall, narrow habit provides refined evergreen privacy.
• Foundation Planting: Frames entries and corners without excessive spread.
• Wildlife Gardens: With a male nearby, red berries feed birds in winter.
• Formal Designs: Suits clipped shapes and symmetrical layouts.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly the first season; provide deep, occasional soaks in drought.
• Pruning: Shape in late winter or after spring flush to maintain lines and density.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with an acid-forming, slow release fertilizer if soil tests indicate need.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 inch mulch ring to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature, keeping mulch off stems.
• Notes: Female cultivar; plant a compatible male holly nearby for fruit set and site away from drying winter winds.

Why Choose Dragon Slayer Holly?

• Upright Narrow Form: Screens and accents without taking excess width.
• Four-Season Structure: Evergreen foliage and dense branching hold a clean line.
• Showy Fruit: Scarlet berries persist into winter with pollination.
• Durable Foliage: Glossy, spiny leaves deter browsing and add shine.
• Versatile: Equally effective as specimen, hedge, or formal element.

Plant in sun to part shade with well drained, slightly acidic soil, pair with a spring-blooming male holly for berries, and prune lightly to preserve the slim, pyramidal silhouette.