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Eagleston Holly Tree
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Zones 6-9
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1-year guaranteeShips in 1–5 daysReal plant experts
From our farm to your front door
- Shipped in its nursery pot, so the roots stay undisturbed
- Soil secured so it stays put in transit
- Packed so the plant stays steady on the way to you
At a glance
- Leaves
- Evergreen: keeps its leaves all year
- Sunlight
- Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
- Water
- When the top 2" of soil is dry
- Growth & size
- Moderate growth rate; it reaches a mature height of 15-25 feet and a width of 8 to 15 feet.
- Botanical name
- Ilex x attenuata 'Eagleston'
- Hardiness
- Zones 6-9
- Tolerates
- Heat tolerantHumidity tolerantDrought tolerantWind tolerantCoastal tolerant
Where it grows in the groundShaded areas are the zones where it can be planted outdoors.
Not sure it'll thrive where you live?Real people who answer questions before and after planting.
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Size guide & what arrives
Size Facts
| *Trade size | **Pot size |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 6" |
| 3 gallon | 8 to 10" |
| 5 gallon | 10 to 12" |
| 7 gallon | 14" |
| 10 gallon | 15 to 17" |
| 15 gallon | 17" |
| "Jumbo" | 7 or 10 or 15 gallon |
*Nursery gallon sizes are trade sizes and do not equal standard liquid gallons.
**Pot sizes in inches refer to container width (diameter), not plant or pot height.
Please note: Sizing can differ between plant varieties and growers. Please chat with us if you need clarification.
For more information on sizing, please see our sizing guide.
What arrives
Good to know
This holly variety is known for its compact size and ease of care, making it ideal for small spaces or as a decorative accent in containers.
What customers are saying
4.8
out of 5 · 19 verified reviews
rated it 4 or 5 stars
Why customers love it
Healthy, well-rooted plants
Hand-selected and shipped in its nursery pot.
Delivered to your door
Skip the nursery trip. Very little car Tetris required.
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Ask us anything before or after planting.
1-year guarantee
If something goes wrong, we'll help make it right.
Care made simple
Plant it right once and it does the rest.
Sun
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
Pick the spot before you dig.
Water
When the top 2" of soil is dry
Water slowly and deeply. Check more often in its first summer.
Grows in
Zones 6-9
Enter your ZIP above to check your zone.
Your first year together
- 1Day 1
Plant it, then water slowly until the whole root ball is soaked.
- 2First few weeks
Keep the soil evenly moist while new roots settle in.
- 3First summer
Water deeply during hot, dry spells.
- 4Next spring
New growth starts. Feed as it wakes up.
Planting instructions
Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade exposure. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Place the Eagleston Patio Holly in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface. Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly to settle. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot. Provide regular watering during the first growing season to help the plant establish.
Watering & sunlight
Watering needs are never one-size-fits-all. Weather, soil type, drainage, plant size, and planting time all affect how quickly a plant dries out.
Use a slow-running hose, soaker hose, or drip system to water the root ball and surrounding root zone thoroughly. Allow the water to penetrate deeply (not just wet the top few inches of soil), and avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Before watering again, check the soil 3–4 inches deep near the root ball. If it feels dry, repeat this deep-watering process. If it feels moist or soggy, wait and check again in 1–2 days. Check the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs several times per week, especially during hot, dry, or windy weather.
Irrigation run times will vary based on flow rate, soil, and system setup.
Need help? Contact our plant experts for watering guidance tailored to your plant and growing conditions.
Eagleston Patio Holly prefers full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and produce abundant berries.
Use a slow-running hose, soaker hose, or drip system to water the root ball and surrounding root zone thoroughly. Allow the water to penetrate deeply (not just wet the top few inches of soil), and avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Before watering again, check the soil 3–4 inches deep near the root ball. If it feels dry, repeat this deep-watering process. If it feels moist or soggy, wait and check again in 1–2 days. Check the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs several times per week, especially during hot, dry, or windy weather.
Irrigation run times will vary based on flow rate, soil, and system setup.
Need help? Contact our plant experts for watering guidance tailored to your plant and growing conditions.
Eagleston Patio Holly prefers full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and produce abundant berries.
Care guide
What does "Jumbo" mean?
Shipping & what's inside
Your plant ships in its nursery pot with the soil secured, packed so it stays steady on the way to you.
1-year guarantee
Every plant is covered by our 1-year guarantee. If something goes wrong, contact our team and we'll walk you through it.
Answered by Simply Trees plant expertsHow big do Eagleston Holly trees get?
Eagleston Patio Holly trees, which are typically pruned and shaped for container use or smaller landscapes, generally reach a more compact size compared to their full-sized counterparts. In this form, they usually grow to about 10-20 feet tall with a spread of 8 to 12 feet.
Their size is maintained through regular pruning, making them ideal for patios, entryways, or as decorative accent trees in smaller spaces. If planted in the ground and left unpruned, they can grow larger, up to their full mature height of 20 to 25 feet with a 10 to 15-foot spread.
Their size is maintained through regular pruning, making them ideal for patios, entryways, or as decorative accent trees in smaller spaces. If planted in the ground and left unpruned, they can grow larger, up to their full mature height of 20 to 25 feet with a 10 to 15-foot spread.
How fast do Eagleston Patio Holly trees grow?
Eagleston Patio Holly trees grow at a moderate rate, typically adding about 12 to 18 inches of growth per year under optimal conditions. Their growth rate can be influenced by factors such as sunlight, soil quality, watering, and regular fertilization. Since patio hollies are often pruned to maintain a compact size, their growth may appear slower than unpruned holly trees. With proper care, these trees will maintain their shape and reach their desired height of 15 to 25 feet over several years.
Where is the best place to plant Eagleston Patio Holly trees?
The best place to plant Eagleston Patio Holly trees is in a location that receives full sun to partial shade, with at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily for healthy growth and berry production. Choose a spot with well-draining soil, as they do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Slightly acidic soil is ideal, but they are adaptable to various soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Since Patio Hollies are often used as ornamental trees, place them near patios, entryways, or along walkways where their compact size and attractive shape can be showcased. If planting in a container, use a large pot with excellent drainage and position it in a bright location. Avoid planting in areas with heavy wind exposure, as it can stress the tree.
For in-ground planting, ensure the location allows for the tree’s mature size, typically 8 to 12 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide. This will ensure the tree has enough space to grow while maintaining its ornamental appeal.
Since Patio Hollies are often used as ornamental trees, place them near patios, entryways, or along walkways where their compact size and attractive shape can be showcased. If planting in a container, use a large pot with excellent drainage and position it in a bright location. Avoid planting in areas with heavy wind exposure, as it can stress the tree.
For in-ground planting, ensure the location allows for the tree’s mature size, typically 8 to 12 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide. This will ensure the tree has enough space to grow while maintaining its ornamental appeal.
Should I plant the Eagleston Patio Holly tree in the ground or container?
Whether to plant an Eagleston Patio Holly tree in the ground or a container depends on your specific needs and space:
In the Ground: Planting in the ground is ideal if you have enough space and want the tree to grow to its full potential of 8 to 12 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide. In-ground planting allows the tree to establish a deep root system, making it more resilient to drought and requiring less frequent watering and maintenance over time. This option is best for long-term landscaping in gardens or yards.
In a Container: Planting in a container is a great option for patios, balconies, or small spaces. Container planting keeps the tree more compact and mobile, making it easier to relocate if needed. Choose a large pot with excellent drainage and use well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Container-grown hollies will need more frequent watering and fertilizing, as nutrients and moisture are depleted faster in pots.
Both options are viable, but if you prefer flexibility and have limited space, a container is a practical choice. For a more permanent addition to your landscape, planting in the ground is the better option.
In the Ground: Planting in the ground is ideal if you have enough space and want the tree to grow to its full potential of 8 to 12 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide. In-ground planting allows the tree to establish a deep root system, making it more resilient to drought and requiring less frequent watering and maintenance over time. This option is best for long-term landscaping in gardens or yards.
In a Container: Planting in a container is a great option for patios, balconies, or small spaces. Container planting keeps the tree more compact and mobile, making it easier to relocate if needed. Choose a large pot with excellent drainage and use well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Container-grown hollies will need more frequent watering and fertilizing, as nutrients and moisture are depleted faster in pots.
Both options are viable, but if you prefer flexibility and have limited space, a container is a practical choice. For a more permanent addition to your landscape, planting in the ground is the better option.
How do I care for Eagleston Holly trees?
To care for Eagleston Holly trees, plant them in a location with full sun to partial shade, as they thrive with at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. They prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil but can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils, as long as there is no prolonged waterlogging.
Watering: Water young trees deeply once a week during the first year to establish a strong root system. Mature trees are drought-tolerant but benefit from supplemental watering during dry spells. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds; keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Fertilizing: Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 to promote healthy growth and berry production. If growing in nutrient-poor soil, an additional application in late summer can be beneficial.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the tree, remove dead or damaged branches, and encourage dense growth. Avoid pruning heavily after flowering to preserve the berries.
Regular care, including monitoring for pests like scale or leaf miners and treating them if needed, will help keep your Eagleston Holly tree healthy and vibrant. With proper care, it will thrive as an ornamental tree or privacy screen.
Watering: Water young trees deeply once a week during the first year to establish a strong root system. Mature trees are drought-tolerant but benefit from supplemental watering during dry spells. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds; keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Fertilizing: Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 to promote healthy growth and berry production. If growing in nutrient-poor soil, an additional application in late summer can be beneficial.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the tree, remove dead or damaged branches, and encourage dense growth. Avoid pruning heavily after flowering to preserve the berries.
Regular care, including monitoring for pests like scale or leaf miners and treating them if needed, will help keep your Eagleston Holly tree healthy and vibrant. With proper care, it will thrive as an ornamental tree or privacy screen.
What is the coldest the Eagleston Holly tree can tolerate?
The Eagleston Holly tree is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C). While it is relatively cold-tolerant, prolonged exposure to extreme cold or sudden temperature drops may stress the tree, especially younger or newly planted specimens. In colder regions at the edge of its hardiness range, providing some protection from harsh winter winds and ensuring the tree is well-mulched can help it survive lower temperatures.
Do I need to prune Eagleston Holly trees?
Yes, Eagleston Holly trees benefit from occasional pruning, though they generally require minimal maintenance. Prune to maintain their shape, encourage dense growth, or remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This timing minimizes stress on the tree and preserves the berries that add visual interest in the fall and winter.
For shaping or hedging, light pruning throughout the growing season can help maintain a neat appearance. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce the number of berries, especially if done after flowering in the spring. Regular, gentle pruning helps maintain the tree’s natural beauty and promotes healthy growth.
For shaping or hedging, light pruning throughout the growing season can help maintain a neat appearance. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce the number of berries, especially if done after flowering in the spring. Regular, gentle pruning helps maintain the tree’s natural beauty and promotes healthy growth.
How far apart should I plant Eagleston Holly trees?
When planting Eagleston Holly trees in the ground, the spacing will depend on your intended use:
For a privacy screen or hedge, plant the trees 6 to 10 feet apart. This spacing allows for dense growth while ensuring each tree has enough room to thrive.
For individual specimen trees, space them at least 15 to 20 feet apart to accommodate their mature size, which can reach up to 20 to 25 feet in height and 10 to 15 feet in width.
Proper spacing helps promote healthy air circulation, reduces the risk of disease, and allows the trees to develop their natural shape and form.
For a privacy screen or hedge, plant the trees 6 to 10 feet apart. This spacing allows for dense growth while ensuring each tree has enough room to thrive.
For individual specimen trees, space them at least 15 to 20 feet apart to accommodate their mature size, which can reach up to 20 to 25 feet in height and 10 to 15 feet in width.
Proper spacing helps promote healthy air circulation, reduces the risk of disease, and allows the trees to develop their natural shape and form.
How often do Eagleston Holly trees produce berrries?
Eagleston Holly trees produce berries once a year, typically in the fall. After flowering in the spring, the female trees (if pollinated by a male holly nearby) develop bright red berries that mature in the fall and persist into winter. These berries provide a striking ornamental feature and a food source for birds. To ensure berry production, you need both male and female holly trees planted nearby, as Eagleston Holly is dioecious, meaning it requires a male pollinator for the female tree to produce berries.
What fertilizer is best for Eagleston Holly trees?
The best fertilizer for Eagleston Holly trees is a slow-release, balanced fertilizer formulated for evergreen trees, such as a 10-10-10 or 12-6-6 formulation. This provides a good mix of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) to support healthy foliage, root development, and overall growth.
For optimal results, apply fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer or early fall. Spread it evenly around the tree’s drip line, avoiding direct contact with the trunk, and water thoroughly after application to help nutrients penetrate the soil. In nutrient-poor soils, you can also add organic compost or a fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants to enhance the tree’s growth and vitality. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can stress the tree and lead to excessive growth.
For optimal results, apply fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer or early fall. Spread it evenly around the tree’s drip line, avoiding direct contact with the trunk, and water thoroughly after application to help nutrients penetrate the soil. In nutrient-poor soils, you can also add organic compost or a fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants to enhance the tree’s growth and vitality. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can stress the tree and lead to excessive growth.
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