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Serving the Kansas City Metro for over 25 Years 913-585-5851 [email protected]
Bold Outdoors
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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.

Maintenance Notes

Low

Complementary Plants

Plants That Pair Well in the Landscape

Selected using botanical relationships, growing conditions, color harmony, size, texture, season, and landscape use.

What Clients Say

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“I have had great experiences with Bold Outdoors. Josh designed our home's landscaping and has been a valued partner for the past 7 years as we have added to and maintained our home's landscaping.”

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“Bold Outdoors has provided the highest quality professional landscape design, installation and after installation services at my residence.”

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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.

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 plan.

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