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new zealand holly tree

The New Zealand holly tree is a sought-after choice for gardeners wanting attractive, low-maintenance greenery that thrives in local conditions. Renowned for its glossy foliage and compact habit, the so-called "New Zealand holly" often refers to plants within the Ilex (holly) genus and their relatives, adapted or popular in New Zealand gardens. With appealing evergreen leaves and understated flowers, the New Zealand holly tree brings year-round visual interest to both formal landscapes and mixed native plantings. This versatile shrub or small tree is prized for hedging, borders, and container gardening, making it a popular selection among gardening enthusiasts seeking structure and elegance.

ilex-aquifolium-angustifolia-male-

Ilex aquifolium 'Angustifolia'

5 from 1 customers

Ilex aquifolium 'Angustifolia' is an elegant evergreen holly admired for its narrow dark green leaves and dense upright growth habit. This hardy shrub or small tree provides year round structure and texture in New Zealand gardens while also producing attractive red berries on female plants when pollinated.

From $136.04

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Pool areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Ilex 'Largo' plant with lush, dark green foliage.

Ilex 'Largo'

5 from 2 customers

Ilex ‘Largo’ is a bold, evergreen holly variety known for its dense, glossy green foliage and broad, upright growth habit. It forms a tidy shrub that’s ideal for hedging, screening, or adding structure to gardens. ‘Largo’ is low maintenance and responds well to trimming, making it easy to shape.

From $136.04

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 2.50 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Pool areas, Screening
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
osmanthus-heterophyllus-
Osmanthus heterophyllus

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Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga) plants in flower with lush green foliage in a border garden.
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Hoheria angustifolia green foliage with masses of white flowers.
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Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
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Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses...

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Podocarpus totara, commonly known as the Totara tree, is a majestic native tree of New Zealand, prized for its durable timber and cultural...

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Sophora tetraptera (Large-leaved Kowhai) yellow flowers.
Sophora tetraptera (Large Leaved Kōwhai)

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A Metrosideros robusta (Northern Rata) tree in full flower in a native reserve.
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Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) tree with lush foliage and white flowers growing in a coastal location.
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio)

Myoporum laetum, commonly known as Ngaio, is a NZ native tree grown for its lush foliage and showy flowers. It features large, fleshy, green leaves...

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Corynocarpus laevigatus (Karaka) tree with lush foliage.
Corynocarpus laevigatus

Corynocarpus laevigatus, commonly known as Karaka, is a handsome, NZ native tree that features large and glossy, green leaves. The lush foliage is...

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Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

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A Sophora godleyi specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai)

Sophora godleyi is a magnificent New Zealand native tree valued for its graceful weeping branches and bright yellow flowers that appear in spring...

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Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

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Fuscospora solandri

Fuscospora solandri (Black Beech) is a distinctive New Zealand native evergreen tree valued for its fine foliage, dense canopy, and strong natural...

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Pseudopanax crassifolius growing in a garden with dark green foliage.
Pseudopanax crassifolius (Lancewood)

Pseudopanax crassifolius, commonly known as Lancewood or Horoeka, is a distinctive New Zealand native tree renowned for its dramatic transformation...

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Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

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Carpodetus serratus, commonly known as the Putaputaweta Tree or Marble Leaf, is an attractive, NZ native tree with spreading branches that host...

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Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

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Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

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Fuscospora cliffortioides

Fuscospora cliffortioides (Mountain Beech) is a distinctive New Zealand native evergreen tree valued for its fine foliage, natural form, and strong...

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Knightia excelsa (Rewarewa) specimen tree in a park.
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Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is an impressive NZ native tree featuring showy flowers and lush foliage. Unusual yet attractive, dark...

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Dysoxylum spectabile tree.
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Pittosporum eugenioides tree with lush, dark green foliage and cream-coloured flowers.
Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

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Hedycarya arborea tree with lush green foliage.
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Hedycarya arborea, commonly known as Pigeonwood, is a New Zealand native tree valued for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits. This evergreen...

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Plagianthus regius as a small tree in a garden.
Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

Plagianthus regius, commonly known as Ribbonwood or Manatu, is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing native trees. It can reach 10–15 metres tall and...

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Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka) tree with green-yellow foliage.
Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka)

Libocedrus plumosa, commonly known as Kawaka, is a majestic NZ native conifer valued for its graceful, feathery foliage and elegant pyramidal form...

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Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
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Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

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A large Agathis australis (Kauri tree) in a native reserve.
Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri)

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Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) trees growing in a modern garden.
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Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature is the masses of olive-like, purple...

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Cordyline australis albertii plants with variegated foliage.
Cordyline albertii

Cordyline albertii (Variegated Cabbage Tree) is a striking evergreen tree admired for its bold green leaves edged with creamy white variegation. This...

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A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
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Ilex aquifolium 'Angustifolia'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Arthropodium, Hoheria, and Ilex, or related Categories - Perennials, Evergreen Shrubs, and Evergreen Trees.

Search new zealand holly tree

What is the New Zealand Holly Tree?

While the name “New Zealand holly tree” is sometimes used broadly, most commonly it refers to Ilex species like Ilex crenata, as well as look-alike plants that are suitably hardy and well-behaved for New Zealand gardens. These species are not native to New Zealand but are chosen for their suitability to our climate and their holly-like appearance. Notably, Ilex crenata Convexa (Japanese Holly) and Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly) are both reliable, compact hollies suited to hedging and topiary.

Distinguishing Features and Garden Uses

The New Zealand holly tree typically features small, dense, glossy leaves reminiscent of the classic English holly, but with a less prickly character, making them gentler to handle for hedges and screens. The plants can tolerate shaping and respond well to regular pruning, which is perfect for formal gardens or structured landscapes. Because of their tough constitution and neat habit, varieties like Ilex Largo are commonly used to define boundaries, create privacy, or as exclamation points in mixed shrub plantings. Dwarf or compact forms are ideal for container growing or low borders.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Located in zones with mild winters and moderate rain, New Zealand holly tree species flourish in well-drained soil and partial sun to full sun exposure. They are generally frost-hardy and tolerant of urban conditions, making them adaptable to city gardens. For best results, mulch well and water during extended dry periods after establishment, but avoid overwatering. Incorporate organic matter into the soil at planting to boost vigour.

Companion Plants and Related Hollies

These hollies partner beautifully with other New Zealand natives and shade-tolerant exotics. For contrasting foliage and texture, consider planting alongside Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily), which offers striking, strappy leaves and starry white blooms. Alternatively, mix with other holly varieties like Ilex aquifolium Angustifolia for layered structure or to experiment with different leaf shapes and coloured berries.

Find the Right Holly for Your Garden

Whether seeking the classic formality of a clipped hedge or an easy-care, evergreen specimen, the New Zealand holly tree and its relatives are reliable, handsome performers. Explore our range of holly varieties, including Ilex Largo, Ilex crenata Convexa (Japanese Holly), and Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly), and add a touch of year-round green structure to your landscape.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

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