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Public Plant Profile

Castle Spire® Holly

Ilex x meserveae 'Hachfee' (Castle Spire®)

Category: Evergreen Shrub • Holly

Castle Spire® Holly is an evergreen with attractive berries, ideal for foundation planting and privacy screens.

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Mature Height: 5-7 feet

Mature Width: 2-3 feet

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 5-9

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Evergreen

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Castle Spire® Holly is a narrow, upright evergreen shrub known for its striking, spiky foliage and bright red berries. It adds vertical interest to landscapes and is ideal for hedges or as a specimen plant.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Prefers well-drained, moist soil.

Soil Preferences

Requires good drainage and moderate moisture; adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Watering Needs

Water regularly, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.

Pruning Notes

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Common Issues

Watch for leaf spot diseases and scale insects; ensure good air circulation to prevent issues.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenfoundation planting

Special Features

Evergreen foliageattractive berries

Wildlife Value

Attracts birds and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for year-round interest and can be used as a privacy screen. Works well in mixed borders.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Castle Spire® Holly a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

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