Ilex glabra 'Ivory Queen'

Ivory Queen Inkberry

Ilex glabra ‘Ivory Queen’ is a dense evergreen shrub valued for its glossy dark green spineless foliage and unusual pale white to ivory-colored berries on female plants when pollinated. This inkberry holly forms a rounded native shrub with softer texture than traditional hollies, and the light berries create subtle contrast against the dark foliage in late season.

Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 4–6 ft · Height: 4–6 ft
USDA Zones: 4a–9b

Form: Dense, rounded

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Moist, acidic soil; tolerant of wet conditions

Water: Medium to high; prefers consistent moisture

Wildlife: Berries attract birds

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for hedges, foundation plantings, rain gardens, and naturalized areas where native evergreen structure and unusual berry color are desired. Its spineless foliage works well near paths and entries.

Care:
Plant in acidic soil and avoid prolonged drought. Prune lightly in early spring if shaping is needed. Older plants may benefit from occasional renewal pruning to maintain fullness.

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

4-6'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Shade, Full Sun

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Foundation Plant, Hedge, Mass Planting

Shape

Compact Rounded

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No