Ilex 'Mesdob'(CHINA BOY)

China Boy Hybrid Holly

Ilex ‘Mesdob’ (China Boy®) is a dense evergreen holly valued for its glossy dark green foliage and strong upright branching. This male holly does not produce berries but is widely planted as an effective pollinator for female hollies such as China Girl®. The leaves are deep green with noticeable spines, giving it classic holly texture and year-round structure.

Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 4–6 ft · Height: 8–10 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–9b

Form: Upright, dense, pyramidal

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil

Water: Medium; prefers regular moisture during establishment

Wildlife: Provides shelter for birds

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for hedges, screening, foundation plantings, and as a pollinator for berry-producing female hollies. Its dense evergreen habit provides strong winter structure.

Care:
Plant in well-drained acidic soil and avoid poorly drained sites. Prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is needed. Use near female hollies for reliable berry production.

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

8-10'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Hedge

Shape

Broad, Pyramidal, Rounded, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No