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Public Plant Profile

Gem Box® Inkberry Holly

Ilex glabra 'SMNIGAB17' (Gem Box®)

Category: Evergreen Shrub • Holly

Gem Box® Inkberry Holly is a compact, evergreen shrub ideal for borders and foundation planting.

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Mature Height: 2-3 feet

Mature Width: 2-3 feet

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 4-9

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

Gem Box® Inkberry Holly is a compact, evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves. It is ideal for low hedges and foundation plantings, providing year-round interest.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Suitable for various landscape settings.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil is ideal, with moderate moisture levels. Tolerates a range of pH and soil types.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain moisture in the soil.

Pruning Notes

Minimal pruning is needed; shape lightly as desired in early spring.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Common Issues

May face issues with leaf spot or root rot in overly wet conditions.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

foundation plantingborderaccent

Special Features

Compact growth habitevergreen foliage

Wildlife Value

Attracts birds and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for low-maintenance landscapes and urban settings. Can be used to create a dense hedge.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Gem Box® Inkberry Holly may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gem Box® Inkberry 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

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