Ilex
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
Oakleaf Holly (Ilex Oakleaf™ 'Conaf') is a vigorous hybrid evergreen holly with large, deeply lobed oak-shaped leaves and heavy crops of bright red berries held through winter. Hardy to zone 9b, it forms a dense upright pyramidal habit suitable for use as a specimen, screen, or hedge in NE Florida, and sets fruit without a male pollinator. Starting at $125.00.
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Oakleaf Holly grows well in full sun to light shade; full sun produces the most compact form and best berry production. In NE Florida, afternoon shade is acceptable but full sun is preferred for maximum ornamental value.
Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system; once established, moderate drought tolerance is good. Mulch around the root zone to retain moisture. Avoid standing water or poorly drained sites — Oakleaf Holly, like all hybrid hollies, is sensitive to root rot.
Plant in slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5), well-drained sandy or loamy soil. Apply a slow-release acid-forming fertilizer (azalea/camellia type) in early spring. This self-fertile cultivar sets bright red berries without a pollinator; berries attract birds and persist through winter in NE Florida landscapes.

Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Oakleaf Holly is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 14-20 feet × 8-12 feet.
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.