Nordic® Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra ‘Chamzin’) is an attractive compact broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its glossy dark green foliage, naturally rounded growth habit, and outstanding cold hardiness. This improved selection of native Inkberry Holly provides dependable year-round structure while offering a beautiful alternative to traditional Japanese Holly and boxwood in residential and commercial landscapes.
Throughout spring and summer, Nordic® develops dense, lustrous dark green foliage that creates a rich, polished appearance. Small greenish-white flowers appear in late spring, providing nectar for bees and other beneficial pollinators. Although the flowers are relatively inconspicuous, they contribute to the ecological value of this native-species shrub.
As autumn approaches, Nordic® retains its attractive dark green foliage, providing a beautiful contrast against colorful deciduous shrubs and ornamental grasses. Its leaves typically maintain excellent winter color, even in colder climates, making it particularly desirable for landscapes requiring dependable evergreen interest.
Compared with the straight species of Inkberry Holly, Nordic® develops a more compact, rounded growth habit with denser branching and a reduced tendency to spread through underground suckers. Its naturally tidy appearance makes it an excellent choice for low evergreen hedges, foundation plantings, mass plantings, and mixed shrub borders.
Nordic® is particularly well suited for traditional landscapes, formal estate-style gardens, woodland borders, and native-inspired plantings. Its preference for acidic soils and tolerance of moist conditions make it a versatile choice for rain gardens, wetland edges, and other locations where traditional evergreen shrubs may struggle.
More About Nordic® Inkberry Holly
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Native-Species Broadleaf Evergreen Shrub
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Compact, Rounded Growth Habit
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Dense, Glossy Dark Green Foliage
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Excellent Winter Foliage Color
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Outstanding Cold Hardiness
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Small Greenish-White Spring Flowers
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Provides Nectar for Pollinators
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Generally Deer Resistant
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Tolerates Moist and Occasionally Wet Soil
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Excellent for Acidic Soil
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Less Aggressive Suckering Than the Species
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Responds Well to Pruning
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Low Maintenance Once Established
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Excellent Boxwood Alternative
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Low Evergreen Hedge
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Foundation Planting, Mass Planting, Mixed Shrub Border
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Suitable for Native Landscapes and Rain Gardens
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Outstanding Four-Season Interest
Height: 3–4 Feet
Spread: 3–4 Feet
Hardiness Zone: 3–9
Characteristics
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Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
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Season of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
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Soil Moisture: Average to Moist; Tolerates Periodically Wet Soil
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Attributes: Native-Species Cultivar, Broadleaf Evergreen, Compact, Cold Hardy, Moist Soil Tolerant, Pollinator Friendly
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Foliage Color: Glossy Dark Green
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Flower Color: Greenish-White
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Flower Fragrance: Not Significant
Care & Maintenance Tips
Planting:
Plant in full sun to partial shade in acidic, organically rich soil. Nordic® performs best in consistently moist soil but can adapt to average garden conditions with adequate watering.
Avoid highly alkaline soils, which can cause yellowing foliage and reduced plant vigor.
For low evergreen hedges, space plants approximately 2.5–3 feet apart, depending on the desired density. Allow adequate room for mature growth and air circulation.
Watering:
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Nordic® prefers consistent moisture, particularly during periods of active growth and hot summer weather.
Once established, it tolerates occasional dry periods but should receive supplemental watering during prolonged droughts.
Fertilizing:
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving evergreens in early spring if needed. Organic mulch can help conserve moisture and maintain favorable soil conditions.
Avoid excessive fertilizer and unnecessary lime applications.
Pruning:
Nordic® naturally develops a compact, rounded shape and generally requires minimal pruning.
If shaping is necessary, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Light trimming can help maintain a tidy appearance and encourage dense branching.
Nordic® also responds well to shearing when maintained as a formal low hedge.
Winter Care:
Nordic® offers excellent cold hardiness and typically retains attractive dark green foliage throughout winter. In exposed locations, winter winds and frozen soil may occasionally cause leaf discoloration or winter burn.
Apply mulch around the root zone to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperatures, keeping mulch away from the main stems.
Pest Prevention:
Monitor periodically for scale insects, leaf miners, spider mites, and occasional leaf spot. Maintain acidic soil conditions, adequate moisture, and good air circulation to support healthy growth.
Pollination Requirements:
Inkberry hollies have separate male and female plants. The sex of Nordic® is reported inconsistently by horticultural references, so berry production or pollinator compatibility should not be guaranteed without confirmation from the grower.
