Ilex Nellie Stevens Half Standard 20 Litre Pot 50/60cm Head

Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens' Half Standard – A Formal Evergreen with Glossy Foliage and Bright Winter Berries

Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens' is a striking evergreen holly that combines classic good looks with hardiness and versatility. In this elegant half standard form, it features a dense, rounded crown of glossy dark green foliage atop a clear stem, making it perfect for adding formal structure and height to gardens, courtyards or containers. From late autumn into winter, the foliage is adorned with vibrant red berries, offering seasonal interest and valuable food for wildlife.

With its low maintenance needs and year-round visual appeal, this holly is a refined choice for traditional or modern outdoor spaces.

Why Grow Ilex 'Nellie R. Stevens' Half Standard?

Glossy Evergreen Foliage

The standout feature of Nellie Stevens is its rich, dark green, leathery leaves, which remain vibrant all year round. Slightly spined and naturally tidy, they create a neat, structured look with minimal pruning.

Abundant Red Berries

Female plants produce bright red berries in autumn and winter (with or without a male pollinator), adding seasonal colour that stands out beautifully against the green foliage. These berries are also a favourite with garden birds, especially in the colder months.

Elegant Half Standard Form

Trained as a half standard with a straight, clear stem and lollipop-style head, Nellie Stevens is ideal for framing pathways, flanking doorways, or standing proud in a pair of pots on patios. Its formal shape works equally well in traditional or contemporary gardens.

Low Maintenance and Hardy

Once established, this holly is drought-tolerant, pest-resistant, and requires little pruning. It copes well with urban pollution and coastal exposure, making it a practical and attractive choice for a wide range of conditions.

Planting & Care Guide

Position:
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. More sun encourages heavier berry production.

Soil:
Prefers well-drained, fertile soil, but is adaptable to a range of soil types. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Watering:
Keep well-watered during the first growing season. Once established, it is reasonably drought-tolerant.

Pruning:
Minimal pruning is needed. Lightly trim to maintain shape in late winter or early spring if desired.

Feeding:
Feed in spring with a slow-release general fertiliser to support healthy growth and berry development.

Mulching:
Apply a layer of organic mulch in spring to retain moisture, suppress weeds and improve soil structure.

Perfect Plant Combinations

Formal Pairings – Use in matching pairs to frame entrances, gates or terraces. Combine with clipped Buxus or bay standards for a classic look.

Seasonal Companions – Underplant with spring bulbs like tulips or alliums, and later-flowering perennials such as Geranium or Nepeta to soften the base and extend seasonal interest.

Wildlife-Friendly Planting – Combine with berry-producing shrubs like Pyracantha or Cotoneaster to enhance its value to birds and pollinators.

Evergreen Structure – Plant alongside other evergreens like Taxus baccata (Yew), Osmanthus or Viburnum tinus for layered, year-round texture.

Ilex 'Nellie R. Stevens' Half Standard is a timeless choice for gardeners seeking a smart, architectural evergreen with seasonal flair. Whether used in formal settings, container displays or wildlife-friendly gardens, this variety brings structure, colour and charm through every season with minimal upkeep.

Ilex Nellie Stevens Half Standard 20 Litre Pot 50/60cm Head Grasslands Nursery Winter Hardy Slow Growing White

Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.