Forever Emerald™ Inkberry Ilex
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WorryFree Promise
Hardiness
Light Flexibility
Compactness
Insect Resistance
Deer Resistance
Special Features
Kid/Pet Friendly
Attracts Wildlife
Low Maintenance
Sustainable
Great for Small Spaces
Good for Containers
Forever Emerald™ Inkberry Ilex
Ilex glabra 'Alexander'
Shrub
Height 4'
Spread 5'
Description
Forever Emerald' Inkberry Ilex is a low-maintenance native evergreen providing year-round interest. Unlike other inkberries, it stays full and low-branched to the ground, eliminating a leggy look. This compact, rounded shrub is drought-resistant once established and requires minimal pruning. It resists deer and rabbits, and as a North American native, it supports local ecosystems and regional biodiversity.
Plant Care
Water
Water regularly; allow soil to dry down between watering
Fertilizer
This shrub thrives in acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.0). Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants like azaleas, rhododendrons, or hollies. Apply fertilizer in early spring just as new growth begins or buds begin to swell. You can provide a second light application in early fall to support root health and winter hardiness. Avoid fertilizing in late summer, as this can trigger tender new growth that may suffer from winter burn during the first frost.
Pruning
Yearly pruning helps maintain its tidy, formal globe shape. Removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches improves airflow and prevents pest or disease issues.
Seasons of Interest
Spring
Produces a prolific amount of small, solitary white flowers. These blossoms are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Summer
It holds its dark green foliage and rounded shape well into the heat, providing a structured, boxwood-like backdrop for summer-blooming perennials.
Fall
Tiny, pea-sized dark purple/black berries provide subtle visual interest and a food source for birds as they prepare for winter.
Winter
As an evergreen, it retains its deep emerald color and dense form all the way to the ground throughout the coldest months, and is highly resistant to winter burn.
