Heartwood: National Leader in Hollies
Heartwood loves Hollies. We are expert propagators of over 50 native and select non-native Holly selections and are the largest propagator of American Holly (Ilex opaca) in the United States.
We offer Hollies wholesale and retail. See our Holly list. Learn more about our Holly propagation.
Heartwood Native Hollies: Straight Species
Heartwood native Hollies are straight species. At Heartwood, when you see a native Holly with a name in quotes, this means the plant is a selection from a naturally occurring population. The name often reflects a noteworthy characteristic about that selection. Unlike a cultivar, it hasn't been genetically manipulated to change its appearance.
Our 'Sundown' Is the National 2026 Holly of the Year!
We're honored to announce that our American Holly 'Sundown' selection has been named the 2026 Holly of the Year by the Holly Society of America. Heartwood owner Sue Hunter shares what went into finding and growing 'Sundown' and what makes it an award winner.
The Heartwood Holly Arboretum
Our beautiful forest of over 300 mature Holly trees and shrubs is a Holly Society of America Certified Arboretum and Test Center, meeting high standards in plant longevity, educational labeling, and research for hardiness. Tours are available. Learn more about the Heartwood Holly Arboretum.
American Holly: The Crown Jewel of Horticulture
Hollies are one of the most unique, diverse, and beautiful groups of plants in nature. While most Holly species are evergreen, there are also deciduous species that lose their leaves in the fall, leaving bright drupes (berries) on bare stems, timed perfectly for the holidays. As a single focal point, a formal hedge, or an informal mass planting, Hollies beautify every garden or landscape.
All Hollies, but especially our natives—American Holly (Ilex opaca), Inkberry (Ilex glabra), and Winterberry (Ilex verticillata)—provide nutrition and shelter for dozens of bird species. In fact, Heartwood owner Sue Hunter, who has propagated American Holly since the 1980s, considers it the crown jewel of horticulture.
Tips: Growing Hollies
Want to grow happy Hollies? Check out our FAQ for tips, or go deeper in a Washington Gardener podcast with Sue Hunter, owner of Heartwood Nursery and President of the Holly Society of America.
