Ilex glabra 'Gem Box®'

Gem Box® Inkberry Holly

An excellent native alternative to boxwood, Gem Box® forms a dense, rounded shrub perfect for smaller planting areas, a low hedge, or decorative containers. Small, dark green leaves have attractive red tips when they start growing in spring. Plants branch all the way to the ground so they aren't bare at the base. Does not require pruning to maintain its compact shape.

Small creamy white flowers May-June are a major nectar source for bees and other pollinators. A male pollinator is required for berries to form.

  • Great native alternative to boxwood
  • Dwarf evergreen
  • Low maintenance

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Classification by Use
Foundation Planting
Native
Specialty Use
Wildlife Garden
Attracts Wildlife
Attracts Pollinators
Habit
Compact
Mounding
Light Requirement
Full Sun
Part Sun
Foliage
Evergreen
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Spring
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Fall
Spring
Summer
Winter
Growth Rate
Slow
Soil Moisture
Average Water
Well-Drained
Wet Soil/Wetlands
Foliage Color
Green
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Ilex glabra 'Gem Box®'

Grow in part sun to full sun. Prefers moist, acidic soil. Tolerates wet soil.