Species black sea holly
green shrub with shiny, green, lanceolate leaves

black sea holly

Ilex colchica

The Black Sea holly (Ilex colchica) is a medium sized evergreen shrub that is native to Turkey, the Caucasus Mountains, and the northeastern regions of the Mediterranean. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and is ideal for providing a lush privacy hedge or dense evergreen backdrop in the garden. The holly leaves take on an interesting glossy black color and have a wispy outline. Its red berries provide a great food source for birds, as well as a festive pop of color in winter. Black sea holly can tolerate a range of soils, including hot, dry sites, and can handle pruning well.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Black Sea Holly (Ilex colchica) requires moderately moist soil for optimal growth. Water deeply once per week or every 10 days, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During periods of extended heat, the plant may benefit from additional waterings. Make sure to never let the soil become too saturated or it could lead to root rot. Water the plant at the base instead of from above to prevent fungal issues and to keep the leaves dry.

sunlight

Black sea holly (Ilex colchica) prefers full sun to partial shade during the morning and afternoon hours. To ensure optimal growth, this species should receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. On extremely hot days, afternoon shade should be provided for this plant to protect it from sunburn and other heat-related issues.

pruning

Pruning Black Sea Holly should be done annually in late winter, just before new growth begins. This will allow the plant to flower on the previous season's wood and not on the new growth. Prune out dead or damaged wood, and thin branches inside the plant to increase airflow. When branches cross over or rub against each other, trim to reduce potential damage. When trimming for shape, remove no more than 1 third of the total foliage or branches. This will help the plant to stay healthy, as Black Sea Hollies are slow-growing and easily damaged.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Black sea holly typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map