Inkberry (Ilex glabra) - Male

You only need one male plant to successfully pollinate several females (bees are the ones we have to thank for cross pollination in this case). But, don’t underestimate the value of the male plants, which provide pollen, a critical food source for bees. Accordingly, I suggest keeping the ratio of male to female plants fairly low, no more than 1 male to 4 females, planted within 50 feet of each other – the closer the better. ~Kim Eierman, EcoBeneficial

You like the buttoned up, formal garden look, but want a native shrub? Do you want Boxwood without the problems? This is the one for you.

Ilex glabra, commonly called inkberry or gallberry, is a slow-growing, upright-rounded, stoloniferous, broadleaf evergreen shrub in the holly family. It typically matures to 5-8’ tall, and can spread by root suckers to form colonies. It is native to the coastal plain from Nova Scotia to Florida to Louisiana where it is most commonly found in sandy woods and peripheries of swamps and bogs.

Excellent for shrub borders, foundation plantings, or as a low hedge. Also, effective naturalized in moist woodland gardens or in moist locations near streams or ponds. This species is noted for its ability to perform well in wet sites, as long as the soil is acidic.

Deer resistant.

Evergreen; Attracts: 🐝 🐦
Light: full sun to part shade
Soil: medium to wet, well-drained
Mature Height: 5’ - 8'