Nellie Stevens Holly
Regular price
$39.95
Height
Pack Options
Create Dense Privacy Screens in Just 3–5 Years
Nellie Stevens Holly (Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens') is one of the fastest ways to build a thick, year-round privacy screen without waiting a decade for results. This broadleaf evergreen gains approximately 2–3 feet per year, filling in gaps along your property line with glossy dark green foliage and bright red berries that last through winter. If slow-growing privacy plants have left you frustrated and exposed, this hybrid holly shrub delivers the dense, beautiful screening your back yard deserves - in a fraction of the time.
Why You'll Love It
-
Rapid Growth – Considered fast growing trees in the genus Ilex, Nellie Stevens Holly trees can add up to 3 feet of height each growing season under favorable conditions, letting you create privacy screens years ahead of most other hollies or broad leaf evergreens.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Dark green leaves with spiny margins stay vibrant in every season, while bright red berries appear in fall and persist through the winter months, adding striking seasonal interest when most plants look bare.
-
Low Maintenance – Once established, this holly is moderately drought resistant and thrives across various soil types with minimal intervention. No constant pruning schedules or fussy watering routines required.
-
Proven Durability – Hardy in USDA zones 6–9, this tree handles everything from coastal fog to inland heat across California's diverse climate conditions. It tolerates urban pollution, wind exposure, and occasional frost.
-
Versatile Design – Whether you need a privacy hedge, a windbreak for your outdoor living space, or a stunning pyramidal shape specimen tree, Nellie Stevens adapts to formal or natural landscape styles with ease.
What Makes It Different
Most fast growing privacy trees are either conifers that shed brittle foliage or broadleaf plants that demand constant attention. Nellie Stevens Holly offers:
-
Hybrid Vigor – A cross between Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) and English holly (Ilex aquifolium), this hybrid combines the heat tolerance and adaptability of its Chinese parent with the ornamental beauty of its English parent. The result is a plant more vigorous and versatile than either species alone.
-
Partial Self-Fertility – Unlike many other hollies that require separate male and female plants for any fruit set, Nellie Stevens can produce some berries without a nearby male pollinizer. For the heaviest display of red berries, planting male hollies within pollination range improves results - but you won't be left with bare branches if you skip them.
-
California-Tested Performance – From coastal zones to foothill properties, this holly thrives where Leyland cypress and arborvitae often struggle with drought stress or pest pressure. Its dense branching and evergreencanopy outperform many alternatives in our climate.
How To Grow Nellie Stevens Holly Successfully
-
Professional Planting Plant your Nellie Stevens holly trees 5–6 feet apart (center to center) along your property line or desired screen location. Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well drained soil. Early spring or fall planting gives roots time to establish before extreme temperatures arrive.
-
Rapid Establishment Water deeply and regularly for the first 6–12 months while the root system develops in the surrounding soil. Mulch 2–3 inches deep around the base - keeping mulch away from the trunk - to conserve moisture and moderate native soil temperature during establishment.
-
Dense Privacy Screen Watch as your plants grow 2–3 feet annually, forming a solid living wall that reaches 15–25 feet tall. Within 3–5 years, you'll have a fully filled-in privacy screen with glossy dark green foliage from top to bottom, including the lower branches that many conifers tend to lose.
Plant Specifications
|
Detail |
Specification |
|---|---|
|
Botanical Name |
Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens' |
|
Mature Height |
15–25 feet (up to 30 feet as specimen) |
|
Mature Width |
8–15 feet spread |
|
Growth Rate |
2–3 feet per year (fast growing) |
|
Hardiness Zones |
USDA 6–9 (ideal for California) |
|
Sun Requirements |
Full sun to partial shade |
|
Soil Needs |
Well drained, slightly acidic soil; adaptable to clay and most soil types |
|
Bloom Time |
Spring (small white flowers) |
|
Berry Color |
Bright red (fall through winter on female plants) |
|
Foliage |
Glossy dark green, leathery, 2.5–4 inches long with spiny margins |
|
Lifespan |
40–75+ years under favorable conditions |
This small tree was introduced in 1954 based on seeds from a chance cross discovered by Nellie R. Stevens around 1900. Her niece Eunice Highley preserved the seedlings, and the cultivar was formally recognized, eventually becoming one of the most widely planted hollies in the nursery trade across North America.
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners seeking fast, reliable screening from neighbors or street noise along their property line
-
Property owners wanting year-round green coverage without regular pruning or high-maintenance care routines
-
Landscape designers creating natural windbreaks, hedging installations, or formal garden borders with seasonal interest
-
Wildlife enthusiasts looking to attract birds with winter berries and provide shelter with dense evergreen foliage
-
Gardeners in challenging conditions who need a drought tolerant plant that handles varied climates, urban stress, and imperfect soil
If you want a proven, fast-growing privacy solution that looks beautiful 365 days a year, Nellie Stevens Holly fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast will Nellie Stevens Holly grow to create privacy? Under favorable conditions - organically rich, well drained soil with adequate water and full sun - expect 2–3 feet of new growth per year. Most homeowners achieve a functional privacy screen within 3–5 years. In harsher conditions or heavy shade, growth may slow to 1–2 feet annually.
Does it need special care? Nellie Stevens performs well across most of zones (zones 7–9 especially). In hot inland areas, provide some afternoon partial shade to prevent leaf scorch. If your native soil is alkaline, amend with slightly acidic compost or use Holly Tone fertilizer to prevent iron chlorosis. Once established, the plant is moderately drought resistant, though deep watering during extended dry spells keeps foliage at its best.
What pests or problems should I watch for? Tea scale is the most common pest, showing up as yellow splotchy foliage. Spider mites, leaf miners, and aphids can also appear. Treat infestations with horticultural oil. Avoid over-pruning, which encourages soft new growth susceptible to pests and powdery mildew or leaf spot. Prune in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins.
Do I need male and female plants for berries? Nellie Stevens is partially self-fertile, meaning female plants can produce some fruit without a nearby male pollinizer. However, for the most abundant berry display, planting a compatible male holly within pollination range significantly improves fruit set.
Are the berries safe for children and pets? Like most hollies, the berries and leaves are toxic if ingested. If you have young children or pets, consider placement carefully or remove berries in accessible areas during fall and winter.
What if I'm not sure about placement or spacing? Our team of can help. We offer consultation services to determine optimal placement based on your specific property, sun exposure, and soil conditions - so every plant performs at its best from day one.
Ready to Transform Your Landscape?
Nellie Stevens Holly delivers the fast, dense, beautiful screening you need - with glossy dark green foliage, bright red winter berries, and the kind of low-maintenance durability that California landscapes demand. Buy plants today and start building your privacy screen this season.
Create Dense Privacy Screens in Just 3–5 Years
Nellie Stevens Holly (Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens') is one of the fastest ways to build a thick, year-round privacy screen without waiting a decade for results. This broadleaf evergreen gains approximately 2–3 feet per year, filling in gaps along your property line with glossy dark green foliage and bright red berries that last through winter. If slow-growing privacy plants have left you frustrated and exposed, this hybrid holly shrub delivers the dense, beautiful screening your back yard deserves - in a fraction of the time.
Why You'll Love It
-
Rapid Growth – Considered fast growing trees in the genus Ilex, Nellie Stevens Holly trees can add up to 3 feet of height each growing season under favorable conditions, letting you create privacy screens years ahead of most other hollies or broad leaf evergreens.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Dark green leaves with spiny margins stay vibrant in every season, while bright red berries appear in fall and persist through the winter months, adding striking seasonal interest when most plants look bare.
-
Low Maintenance – Once established, this holly is moderately drought resistant and thrives across various soil types with minimal intervention. No constant pruning schedules or fussy watering routines required.
-
Proven Durability – Hardy in USDA zones 6–9, this tree handles everything from coastal fog to inland heat across California's diverse climate conditions. It tolerates urban pollution, wind exposure, and occasional frost.
-
Versatile Design – Whether you need a privacy hedge, a windbreak for your outdoor living space, or a stunning pyramidal shape specimen tree, Nellie Stevens adapts to formal or natural landscape styles with ease.
What Makes It Different
Most fast growing privacy trees are either conifers that shed brittle foliage or broadleaf plants that demand constant attention. Nellie Stevens Holly offers:
-
Hybrid Vigor – A cross between Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) and English holly (Ilex aquifolium), this hybrid combines the heat tolerance and adaptability of its Chinese parent with the ornamental beauty of its English parent. The result is a plant more vigorous and versatile than either species alone.
-
Partial Self-Fertility – Unlike many other hollies that require separate male and female plants for any fruit set, Nellie Stevens can produce some berries without a nearby male pollinizer. For the heaviest display of red berries, planting male hollies within pollination range improves results - but you won't be left with bare branches if you skip them.
-
California-Tested Performance – From coastal zones to foothill properties, this holly thrives where Leyland cypress and arborvitae often struggle with drought stress or pest pressure. Its dense branching and evergreencanopy outperform many alternatives in our climate.
How To Grow Nellie Stevens Holly Successfully
-
Professional Planting Plant your Nellie Stevens holly trees 5–6 feet apart (center to center) along your property line or desired screen location. Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well drained soil. Early spring or fall planting gives roots time to establish before extreme temperatures arrive.
-
Rapid Establishment Water deeply and regularly for the first 6–12 months while the root system develops in the surrounding soil. Mulch 2–3 inches deep around the base - keeping mulch away from the trunk - to conserve moisture and moderate native soil temperature during establishment.
-
Dense Privacy Screen Watch as your plants grow 2–3 feet annually, forming a solid living wall that reaches 15–25 feet tall. Within 3–5 years, you'll have a fully filled-in privacy screen with glossy dark green foliage from top to bottom, including the lower branches that many conifers tend to lose.
Plant Specifications
|
Detail |
Specification |
|---|---|
|
Botanical Name |
Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens' |
|
Mature Height |
15–25 feet (up to 30 feet as specimen) |
|
Mature Width |
8–15 feet spread |
|
Growth Rate |
2–3 feet per year (fast growing) |
|
Hardiness Zones |
USDA 6–9 (ideal for California) |
|
Sun Requirements |
Full sun to partial shade |
|
Soil Needs |
Well drained, slightly acidic soil; adaptable to clay and most soil types |
|
Bloom Time |
Spring (small white flowers) |
|
Berry Color |
Bright red (fall through winter on female plants) |
|
Foliage |
Glossy dark green, leathery, 2.5–4 inches long with spiny margins |
|
Lifespan |
40–75+ years under favorable conditions |
This small tree was introduced in 1954 based on seeds from a chance cross discovered by Nellie R. Stevens around 1900. Her niece Eunice Highley preserved the seedlings, and the cultivar was formally recognized, eventually becoming one of the most widely planted hollies in the nursery trade across North America.
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners seeking fast, reliable screening from neighbors or street noise along their property line
-
Property owners wanting year-round green coverage without regular pruning or high-maintenance care routines
-
Landscape designers creating natural windbreaks, hedging installations, or formal garden borders with seasonal interest
-
Wildlife enthusiasts looking to attract birds with winter berries and provide shelter with dense evergreen foliage
-
Gardeners in challenging conditions who need a drought tolerant plant that handles varied climates, urban stress, and imperfect soil
If you want a proven, fast-growing privacy solution that looks beautiful 365 days a year, Nellie Stevens Holly fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast will Nellie Stevens Holly grow to create privacy? Under favorable conditions - organically rich, well drained soil with adequate water and full sun - expect 2–3 feet of new growth per year. Most homeowners achieve a functional privacy screen within 3–5 years. In harsher conditions or heavy shade, growth may slow to 1–2 feet annually.
Does it need special care? Nellie Stevens performs well across most of zones (zones 7–9 especially). In hot inland areas, provide some afternoon partial shade to prevent leaf scorch. If your native soil is alkaline, amend with slightly acidic compost or use Holly Tone fertilizer to prevent iron chlorosis. Once established, the plant is moderately drought resistant, though deep watering during extended dry spells keeps foliage at its best.
What pests or problems should I watch for? Tea scale is the most common pest, showing up as yellow splotchy foliage. Spider mites, leaf miners, and aphids can also appear. Treat infestations with horticultural oil. Avoid over-pruning, which encourages soft new growth susceptible to pests and powdery mildew or leaf spot. Prune in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins.
Do I need male and female plants for berries? Nellie Stevens is partially self-fertile, meaning female plants can produce some fruit without a nearby male pollinizer. However, for the most abundant berry display, planting a compatible male holly within pollination range significantly improves fruit set.
Are the berries safe for children and pets? Like most hollies, the berries and leaves are toxic if ingested. If you have young children or pets, consider placement carefully or remove berries in accessible areas during fall and winter.
What if I'm not sure about placement or spacing? Our team of can help. We offer consultation services to determine optimal placement based on your specific property, sun exposure, and soil conditions - so every plant performs at its best from day one.
Ready to Transform Your Landscape?
Nellie Stevens Holly delivers the fast, dense, beautiful screening you need - with glossy dark green foliage, bright red winter berries, and the kind of low-maintenance durability that California landscapes demand. Buy plants today and start building your privacy screen this season.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
You may also like...
Nellie Stevens Holly
Regular price
$39.95
Height
Pack Options
Create Dense Privacy Screens in Just 3–5 Years
Nellie Stevens Holly (Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens') is one of the fastest ways to build a thick, year-round privacy screen without waiting a decade for results. This broadleaf evergreen gains approximately 2–3 feet per year, filling in gaps along your property line with glossy dark green foliage and bright red berries that last through winter. If slow-growing privacy plants have left you frustrated and exposed, this hybrid holly shrub delivers the dense, beautiful screening your back yard deserves - in a fraction of the time.
Why You'll Love It
-
Rapid Growth – Considered fast growing trees in the genus Ilex, Nellie Stevens Holly trees can add up to 3 feet of height each growing season under favorable conditions, letting you create privacy screens years ahead of most other hollies or broad leaf evergreens.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Dark green leaves with spiny margins stay vibrant in every season, while bright red berries appear in fall and persist through the winter months, adding striking seasonal interest when most plants look bare.
-
Low Maintenance – Once established, this holly is moderately drought resistant and thrives across various soil types with minimal intervention. No constant pruning schedules or fussy watering routines required.
-
Proven Durability – Hardy in USDA zones 6–9, this tree handles everything from coastal fog to inland heat across California's diverse climate conditions. It tolerates urban pollution, wind exposure, and occasional frost.
-
Versatile Design – Whether you need a privacy hedge, a windbreak for your outdoor living space, or a stunning pyramidal shape specimen tree, Nellie Stevens adapts to formal or natural landscape styles with ease.
What Makes It Different
Most fast growing privacy trees are either conifers that shed brittle foliage or broadleaf plants that demand constant attention. Nellie Stevens Holly offers:
-
Hybrid Vigor – A cross between Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) and English holly (Ilex aquifolium), this hybrid combines the heat tolerance and adaptability of its Chinese parent with the ornamental beauty of its English parent. The result is a plant more vigorous and versatile than either species alone.
-
Partial Self-Fertility – Unlike many other hollies that require separate male and female plants for any fruit set, Nellie Stevens can produce some berries without a nearby male pollinizer. For the heaviest display of red berries, planting male hollies within pollination range improves results - but you won't be left with bare branches if you skip them.
-
California-Tested Performance – From coastal zones to foothill properties, this holly thrives where Leyland cypress and arborvitae often struggle with drought stress or pest pressure. Its dense branching and evergreencanopy outperform many alternatives in our climate.
How To Grow Nellie Stevens Holly Successfully
-
Professional Planting Plant your Nellie Stevens holly trees 5–6 feet apart (center to center) along your property line or desired screen location. Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well drained soil. Early spring or fall planting gives roots time to establish before extreme temperatures arrive.
-
Rapid Establishment Water deeply and regularly for the first 6–12 months while the root system develops in the surrounding soil. Mulch 2–3 inches deep around the base - keeping mulch away from the trunk - to conserve moisture and moderate native soil temperature during establishment.
-
Dense Privacy Screen Watch as your plants grow 2–3 feet annually, forming a solid living wall that reaches 15–25 feet tall. Within 3–5 years, you'll have a fully filled-in privacy screen with glossy dark green foliage from top to bottom, including the lower branches that many conifers tend to lose.
Plant Specifications
|
Detail |
Specification |
|---|---|
|
Botanical Name |
Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens' |
|
Mature Height |
15–25 feet (up to 30 feet as specimen) |
|
Mature Width |
8–15 feet spread |
|
Growth Rate |
2–3 feet per year (fast growing) |
|
Hardiness Zones |
USDA 6–9 (ideal for California) |
|
Sun Requirements |
Full sun to partial shade |
|
Soil Needs |
Well drained, slightly acidic soil; adaptable to clay and most soil types |
|
Bloom Time |
Spring (small white flowers) |
|
Berry Color |
Bright red (fall through winter on female plants) |
|
Foliage |
Glossy dark green, leathery, 2.5–4 inches long with spiny margins |
|
Lifespan |
40–75+ years under favorable conditions |
This small tree was introduced in 1954 based on seeds from a chance cross discovered by Nellie R. Stevens around 1900. Her niece Eunice Highley preserved the seedlings, and the cultivar was formally recognized, eventually becoming one of the most widely planted hollies in the nursery trade across North America.
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners seeking fast, reliable screening from neighbors or street noise along their property line
-
Property owners wanting year-round green coverage without regular pruning or high-maintenance care routines
-
Landscape designers creating natural windbreaks, hedging installations, or formal garden borders with seasonal interest
-
Wildlife enthusiasts looking to attract birds with winter berries and provide shelter with dense evergreen foliage
-
Gardeners in challenging conditions who need a drought tolerant plant that handles varied climates, urban stress, and imperfect soil
If you want a proven, fast-growing privacy solution that looks beautiful 365 days a year, Nellie Stevens Holly fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast will Nellie Stevens Holly grow to create privacy? Under favorable conditions - organically rich, well drained soil with adequate water and full sun - expect 2–3 feet of new growth per year. Most homeowners achieve a functional privacy screen within 3–5 years. In harsher conditions or heavy shade, growth may slow to 1–2 feet annually.
Does it need special care? Nellie Stevens performs well across most of zones (zones 7–9 especially). In hot inland areas, provide some afternoon partial shade to prevent leaf scorch. If your native soil is alkaline, amend with slightly acidic compost or use Holly Tone fertilizer to prevent iron chlorosis. Once established, the plant is moderately drought resistant, though deep watering during extended dry spells keeps foliage at its best.
What pests or problems should I watch for? Tea scale is the most common pest, showing up as yellow splotchy foliage. Spider mites, leaf miners, and aphids can also appear. Treat infestations with horticultural oil. Avoid over-pruning, which encourages soft new growth susceptible to pests and powdery mildew or leaf spot. Prune in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins.
Do I need male and female plants for berries? Nellie Stevens is partially self-fertile, meaning female plants can produce some fruit without a nearby male pollinizer. However, for the most abundant berry display, planting a compatible male holly within pollination range significantly improves fruit set.
Are the berries safe for children and pets? Like most hollies, the berries and leaves are toxic if ingested. If you have young children or pets, consider placement carefully or remove berries in accessible areas during fall and winter.
What if I'm not sure about placement or spacing? Our team of can help. We offer consultation services to determine optimal placement based on your specific property, sun exposure, and soil conditions - so every plant performs at its best from day one.
Ready to Transform Your Landscape?
Nellie Stevens Holly delivers the fast, dense, beautiful screening you need - with glossy dark green foliage, bright red winter berries, and the kind of low-maintenance durability that California landscapes demand. Buy plants today and start building your privacy screen this season.
Create Dense Privacy Screens in Just 3–5 Years
Nellie Stevens Holly (Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens') is one of the fastest ways to build a thick, year-round privacy screen without waiting a decade for results. This broadleaf evergreen gains approximately 2–3 feet per year, filling in gaps along your property line with glossy dark green foliage and bright red berries that last through winter. If slow-growing privacy plants have left you frustrated and exposed, this hybrid holly shrub delivers the dense, beautiful screening your back yard deserves - in a fraction of the time.
Why You'll Love It
-
Rapid Growth – Considered fast growing trees in the genus Ilex, Nellie Stevens Holly trees can add up to 3 feet of height each growing season under favorable conditions, letting you create privacy screens years ahead of most other hollies or broad leaf evergreens.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Dark green leaves with spiny margins stay vibrant in every season, while bright red berries appear in fall and persist through the winter months, adding striking seasonal interest when most plants look bare.
-
Low Maintenance – Once established, this holly is moderately drought resistant and thrives across various soil types with minimal intervention. No constant pruning schedules or fussy watering routines required.
-
Proven Durability – Hardy in USDA zones 6–9, this tree handles everything from coastal fog to inland heat across California's diverse climate conditions. It tolerates urban pollution, wind exposure, and occasional frost.
-
Versatile Design – Whether you need a privacy hedge, a windbreak for your outdoor living space, or a stunning pyramidal shape specimen tree, Nellie Stevens adapts to formal or natural landscape styles with ease.
What Makes It Different
Most fast growing privacy trees are either conifers that shed brittle foliage or broadleaf plants that demand constant attention. Nellie Stevens Holly offers:
-
Hybrid Vigor – A cross between Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) and English holly (Ilex aquifolium), this hybrid combines the heat tolerance and adaptability of its Chinese parent with the ornamental beauty of its English parent. The result is a plant more vigorous and versatile than either species alone.
-
Partial Self-Fertility – Unlike many other hollies that require separate male and female plants for any fruit set, Nellie Stevens can produce some berries without a nearby male pollinizer. For the heaviest display of red berries, planting male hollies within pollination range improves results - but you won't be left with bare branches if you skip them.
-
California-Tested Performance – From coastal zones to foothill properties, this holly thrives where Leyland cypress and arborvitae often struggle with drought stress or pest pressure. Its dense branching and evergreencanopy outperform many alternatives in our climate.
How To Grow Nellie Stevens Holly Successfully
-
Professional Planting Plant your Nellie Stevens holly trees 5–6 feet apart (center to center) along your property line or desired screen location. Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well drained soil. Early spring or fall planting gives roots time to establish before extreme temperatures arrive.
-
Rapid Establishment Water deeply and regularly for the first 6–12 months while the root system develops in the surrounding soil. Mulch 2–3 inches deep around the base - keeping mulch away from the trunk - to conserve moisture and moderate native soil temperature during establishment.
-
Dense Privacy Screen Watch as your plants grow 2–3 feet annually, forming a solid living wall that reaches 15–25 feet tall. Within 3–5 years, you'll have a fully filled-in privacy screen with glossy dark green foliage from top to bottom, including the lower branches that many conifers tend to lose.
Plant Specifications
|
Detail |
Specification |
|---|---|
|
Botanical Name |
Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens' |
|
Mature Height |
15–25 feet (up to 30 feet as specimen) |
|
Mature Width |
8–15 feet spread |
|
Growth Rate |
2–3 feet per year (fast growing) |
|
Hardiness Zones |
USDA 6–9 (ideal for California) |
|
Sun Requirements |
Full sun to partial shade |
|
Soil Needs |
Well drained, slightly acidic soil; adaptable to clay and most soil types |
|
Bloom Time |
Spring (small white flowers) |
|
Berry Color |
Bright red (fall through winter on female plants) |
|
Foliage |
Glossy dark green, leathery, 2.5–4 inches long with spiny margins |
|
Lifespan |
40–75+ years under favorable conditions |
This small tree was introduced in 1954 based on seeds from a chance cross discovered by Nellie R. Stevens around 1900. Her niece Eunice Highley preserved the seedlings, and the cultivar was formally recognized, eventually becoming one of the most widely planted hollies in the nursery trade across North America.
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners seeking fast, reliable screening from neighbors or street noise along their property line
-
Property owners wanting year-round green coverage without regular pruning or high-maintenance care routines
-
Landscape designers creating natural windbreaks, hedging installations, or formal garden borders with seasonal interest
-
Wildlife enthusiasts looking to attract birds with winter berries and provide shelter with dense evergreen foliage
-
Gardeners in challenging conditions who need a drought tolerant plant that handles varied climates, urban stress, and imperfect soil
If you want a proven, fast-growing privacy solution that looks beautiful 365 days a year, Nellie Stevens Holly fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast will Nellie Stevens Holly grow to create privacy? Under favorable conditions - organically rich, well drained soil with adequate water and full sun - expect 2–3 feet of new growth per year. Most homeowners achieve a functional privacy screen within 3–5 years. In harsher conditions or heavy shade, growth may slow to 1–2 feet annually.
Does it need special care? Nellie Stevens performs well across most of zones (zones 7–9 especially). In hot inland areas, provide some afternoon partial shade to prevent leaf scorch. If your native soil is alkaline, amend with slightly acidic compost or use Holly Tone fertilizer to prevent iron chlorosis. Once established, the plant is moderately drought resistant, though deep watering during extended dry spells keeps foliage at its best.
What pests or problems should I watch for? Tea scale is the most common pest, showing up as yellow splotchy foliage. Spider mites, leaf miners, and aphids can also appear. Treat infestations with horticultural oil. Avoid over-pruning, which encourages soft new growth susceptible to pests and powdery mildew or leaf spot. Prune in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins.
Do I need male and female plants for berries? Nellie Stevens is partially self-fertile, meaning female plants can produce some fruit without a nearby male pollinizer. However, for the most abundant berry display, planting a compatible male holly within pollination range significantly improves fruit set.
Are the berries safe for children and pets? Like most hollies, the berries and leaves are toxic if ingested. If you have young children or pets, consider placement carefully or remove berries in accessible areas during fall and winter.
What if I'm not sure about placement or spacing? Our team of can help. We offer consultation services to determine optimal placement based on your specific property, sun exposure, and soil conditions - so every plant performs at its best from day one.
Ready to Transform Your Landscape?
Nellie Stevens Holly delivers the fast, dense, beautiful screening you need - with glossy dark green foliage, bright red winter berries, and the kind of low-maintenance durability that California landscapes demand. Buy plants today and start building your privacy screen this season.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Thousands of Healthy Plants Delivered
Yardwork was so great to work with. First they had the Swan Hill olive trees that we had been searching for, we had contacted several other nurseries without any luck previously. Then they answered all of our questions in a timely matter prior to ordering and finally delivered within a few days of placing it. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable; they delivered and planted our trees with expertise to ensure that they would do well in our yard. We would definitely work with them again for future projects.
A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover certain plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover certain plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship throughout the entire United States and even internationally. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship throughout the entire United States and even internationally. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.