Ilex 'Carolina Sentinel'

‘Carolina Sentinel’ holly is a cultivar selected from a cross between winterberry (Ilex verticillata) and the finetooth holly (Ilex serrata). Like the related ‘Carolina Cardinal’, It is a JC Raulston Arboretum Selection.

This holly is tolerant of most soils except poorly-drained ones and can be grown in full to partial sun. It is tolerant of heat and humidity and is drought tolerant once established, making it a good choice for the South. Prune in the late winter to control its size if needed. It tolerates pruning and, in the landscape, can be grown as a hedge or trained to be a small tree. Mature plants do not tolerate root disturbance, so it is best to site the plant in its permanent position, preferably one that provides winter protection for the first year or two.

It has a narrow, dense and columnar form. For comparison, the form is more narrow and dense than the 'Nellie R. Stevens' cultivar. Carolina Sentinel Holly is an evergreen shrub or small tree with leaves that are a deep green (almost a blue-green) and inconspicuous, white flowers. Female plants produce a heavy crop of red berries in the fall through the winter. 

It is excellent for hedges, particularly in narrow spaces. The fruit and evergreen leaves make for winter interest in the landscape. The spiny leaves make this a good choice for a barrier as an impenetrable hedge.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known diseases or pest issues. Depending on the planting location, this shrub can exhibit chlorosis, leaf drop, or leaf scorch from high-pH soils.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common diseases and insect pests.  

More information on Ilex.