How to Grow Burford Holly
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Burford Holly
Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii'
shrubBurford Holly is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its dense foliage and abundant bright red berries that persist through winter. It's a spineless variety of Chinese holly, making it safer and more practical for landscapes than traditional hollies. This hardy, low-maintenance shrub is excellent for hedging, screening, and ornamental use.
When should you plant Burford Holly in your zone?
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Example Burford Holly timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Burford Holly
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Burford Holly
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Burford Holly dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5b-9b, with best performance in zones 7-9
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Establishment (Year 1)
12 monthsYoung shrub with minimal growth; foliage is sparse and tender
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around base, keeping 2-3 inches away from stem. Avoid fertilizing first year; allow roots to establish.
Vegetative Growth (Years 1-3)
2-3 yearsRapid shoot and leaf development; plant becomes bushier with dark green, glossy foliage
Prune lightly in early spring to encourage branching and compact form. Maintain consistent moisture. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring. No berries yet in first 2 years.
Flowering (Spring, Year 2+)
3-4 weeks (April-May)Small, inconspicuous cream-colored flowers appear in leaf axils; flowers are unisexual
Note: Burford Holly is self-fertile, so pollination occurs without male plants nearby. Ensure adequate sun for best flowering. Do not over-prune during flowering period.
Fruiting (Summer-Winter, Year 2+)
6-8 months (June-February)Bright red, glossy berries develop from fertilized flowers; berries persist on branches through winter
Reduce watering slightly as plant transitions to dormancy. Avoid pruning in late summer/fall to prevent berry removal. Moderate fertilizing in summer supports berry development.
Dormancy (Winter)
3-4 months (December-March)Growth slows significantly; foliage remains evergreen; berries are most ornamental display
Minimal watering; only water during dry spells or if soil becomes completely dry. No fertilizing. Prune damaged branches as needed. Heavy berry set provides winter interest and wildlife food.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Prune and destroy infested leaves; apply insecticidal soap in early spring before damage appears; maintain plant health to reduce susceptibility
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge; apply neem oil or horticultural oil in hot, dry conditions; increase humidity around plants
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Hand-remove visible scale; apply horticultural oil in late winter or early spring; prune heavily infested branches
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Prune affected buds; apply spinosad or insecticidal soap in spring; maintain good air circulation
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Spray with water; use insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
Uses
Holiday Arrangements & Decorations
HouseholdBurford Holly branches with glossy red berries are prized for winter holiday arrangements, wreaths, and mantelpiece displays. The long-lasting berries and evergreen foliage provide natural seasonal decoration without requiring a live tree. [source]
Wildlife Food Source
WildlifeThe abundant red berries are an important winter food source for birds including robins, bluebirds, waxwings, and mockingbirds. The dense evergreen foliage also provides shelter for overwintering wildlife. [source]
Privacy & Ornamental Screening
HouseholdDense growth habit and tolerance for pruning make Burford Holly excellent for hedging, privacy screens, and living fences. Its compact form and year-round foliage provide effective visual barriers. [source]
Foundation & Landscape Accent
HouseholdThe spineless foliage and attractive berry display make it ideal for foundation plantings near entryways and walkways where traditional hollies would be hazardous. Low-maintenance nature suits residential landscaping. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalHolly leaves have been used in traditional medicine for immune support and as a diuretic, though modern evidence is limited. Always consult healthcare providers before medicinal use. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Burford Holly is grown ornamentally for its berries and foliage, not harvested like fruiting plants. For floral arrangements, cut berry-laden branches in late fall or winter when berries are fully colored and most ornamental. Use pruning shears to cut stems; branches can last 2-3 weeks in water indoors. Prune in early spring (before growth flush) to shape plant and maintain size; avoid heavy pruning that removes flower buds. Light pruning throughout growing season encourages bushier form.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Burford Holly is self-fertile unlike most hollies, meaning a single plant will produce abundant berries without requiring a male pollinator plant nearby—this is a major advantage for small landscapes.
- 🌱 The 'Burfordii' cultivar was originally selected in southern U.S. nurseries for its spineless leaves, making it much safer than traditional Chinese holly around children and pets.
- 🌱 Burford Holly berries can remain on branches for 6+ months, providing ornamental interest and wildlife food from summer through early spring, often outlasting the fresh-cut holiday decorations made from them.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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