It is easy to grow and offers good winter color.
This alternate name derives from the fact that black ink was once made from the galls of oaks.
However, be aware that the leaves and berries have toxic qualities to both humans and pets.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Inkberry Holly Care
Inkberries are dioecious (meaning there are separate male and female plants).
Female plants need a male pollinator if you want them to produce the berry-like fruits.
A single male plant is usually all that is required.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Inkberry works well in moist locations, such as woodland gardens around landscape ponds and water features.
Inkberry is also a good native substitute for boxwood and privet hedges.
Inkberry shrubs hold up well to polluted urban conditions.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Bees are fond of the flowers, and the resulting honey has a highly prized, unique flavor.
Inkberry is sometimes planted as a source of food for beehives.
Wild birds are also drawn to inkberry.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Light
This shrub prefers full sun, especially in cooler climates.
It can, however, tolerate partial sun and may appreciate some shade in warmer areas.
It does not do well in alkaline soils.
You will need to water at least once a week, especially if the weather is dry.
Temperature and Humidity
Inkberry holly thrives in a wet, cool climate.
This distinguishes it from other hollies, which often prefer drier locations.
Fertilizer
Fertilize in spring with afertilizersuch as Holly-Tone.
If your soil is alkaline, consider amending it before planting your inkberry.
It’s best to wait till after the blooms are spent to prune the plant.
Remove root suckers regularly if you don’t want the shrubs to colonize and spread.
Propagating Inkberry Holly
Inkberry self-propagates by spreading root suckers.
In fact, it can take over an area rapidly if it’s not checked.
And then plant in the desired location.
Overwintering
Inkberry holds up well during the winter months.
Interestingly enough, some species will have their leaves turn a deep purplish color in the winter.
Leaf spot is an occasional problem.
These issues can be taken care of with a fungicide or neem oil treatment.
Inkberry holly should be planted just to the top of the root ball.
If you plant up to where the branches meet the roots, that’s too deep.
With the right conditions and proper care, inkberry holly can live for 40 years or more.
There are some holly plants that have lived as long as 100 years.
Plant some viburnum, hydrangea, or rhododendrons along with inkberry.
Holly Berries.Poison Control, National Capital Poison Center.
