Ilex × meserveae Blue Princess | Blue Princess Holly - Ball - Width 60cm - 40lt

Ilex × meserveae 'Blue Princess' is a captivating evergreen shrub renowned for its striking foliage and vibrant berries, making it a cherished addition to gardens and landscapes. Belonging to the holly family (Aquifoliaceae), 'Blue Princess' is a hybrid cross between Ilex rugosa and Ilex aquifolium, resulting in a plant that combines desirable traits from both parents.

The most notable feature of 'Blue Princess' is its glossy, dark green leaves with a distinct bluish tint, lending a unique and alluring aesthetic to any garden setting. These leaves are typically spiny, a characteristic inherited from its parent species, Ilex aquifolium, adding texture and interest to the plant. The foliage remains evergreen throughout the year, providing year-round visual appeal and serving as an excellent backdrop for other garden plants.

During the spring season, 'Blue Princess' produces small, inconspicuous white flowers that add a delicate charm to the shrub. While individually modest, these blooms collectively create a lovely display, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden. Following pollination, female plants like 'Blue Princess' develop clusters of bright red berries in the fall, which persist into winter, providing a valuable food source for birds.

This cultivar is relatively low-maintenance and adapts well to various soil types and environmental conditions. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring well-drained soil with regular watering, especially during dry spells. 'Blue Princess' is also known for its tolerance of urban pollution, making it a suitable choice for city landscapes and gardens.