Inkberry Holly Plant Care
Ilex glabra A.Gray
Ilex glabra, also known as Appalachian tea, evergreen winterberry, Canadian winterberry, gallberry, inkberry, dye-leaves and houx galbre, is a species of evergreen holly native to the coastal plain of eastern North America, from coastal Nova Scotia to Florida and west to Louisiana where it is most commonly found in sandy woods and peripheries of swamps and bogs. Ilex glabra is often found in landscapes of the middle and lower East Coast of the United States.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to part shade
50–80°F
40–70%
What Is the Inkberry Holly?
Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra) belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family within the Ilex genus. Inkberry Holly is native to the coastal plain of eastern North America, from coastal Nova Scotia to Florida and west to Louisiana. Inkberry Holly is also known as Inkberry, Winterberry, Gallberry.
Inkberry Holly displays an upright, dense shrub or small tree growth habit, reaching up to 15 inches tall with a spread of approximately 10 inches. Inkberry Holly produces small white flowers in clusters, followed by red berries.
Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Inkberry Holly?
Ilex glabra requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Inkberry Holly Need?
Inkberry Holly thrives in full sun to part shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–200 lux. Avoid placing Inkberry Holly in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to part shade
100–200 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Inkberry Holly Prefer?
Ilex glabra grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Inkberry Holly prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Inkberry Holly?
Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Inkberry Holly to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Inkberry Holly?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Inkberry Holly?
Inkberry Holly can be propagated through seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to yaupon holly plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Inkberry Holly Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Inkberry Holly?
Inkberry Holly is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, leaf miners. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Inkberry Holly Need?
Inkberry Holly grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to the coastal plain of eastern North America, from coastal Nova Scotia to Florida and west to Louisiana, Inkberry Holly is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Inkberry Holly as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Inkberry Holly is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Ilex genus — compare its care with other Ilex species on PlantoScan.
Inkberry Holly tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Ilex Species
Other Ilex species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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