Holly has long been associated with winter, with its glossy leaves and bright berries offering color, structure, and symbolism during the darkest months of the year. At Bloedel Reserve, several species and cultivars bring this seasonal magic to life in different corners of the landscape. From native wetland hollies to sculptural evergreen forms, each has a story to tell.
Although English holly (Ilex aquifolium) is the most familiar image for many, it is invasive in the Pacific Northwest and designated a Class C noxious weed in Washington State. Fortunately, the genus Ilex includes hundreds of diverse species with valuable ecological and ornamental roles. Here’s a closer look at the hollies you can spot during your next visit.
Ilex verticillata — Winterberry Holly
Location: Buxton Bird Marsh & Pollinator Meadow
One of the most striking hollies in winter, Ilex verticillata is a deciduous species that drops its leaves in fall, revealing clusters of vivid red berries along bare stems. These berries are a welcome food source for birds at a time of year when natural forage becomes scarce. In the Buxton Bird Marsh, winterberry holly lights up the wetlands with bright, festive color and supports wildlife exactly when it’s needed most.
Ilex crenata ‘Mariesii’ — Maries’ Japanese Holly
Location: Near the Reflection Pool
This elegant evergreen holly brings fine texture and a sense of refinement to the gardens surrounding the Reflection Pool. With small, dark leaves and a naturally layered branching pattern, Ilex crenata ‘Mariesii’ plays beautifully with the stillness and symmetry of the space. Its understated form contrasts the bolder winter structures in the garden and provides year-round interest for visitors.
Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’ — Sky Pencil Holly
Location: In front of the Residence
Recently added to the plantings at the Residence, Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’ brings remarkable verticality to the landscape. True to its name, this narrow, upright holly grows in tall, columnar lines, like exclamation points of greenery. Its shape provides architectural structure in all seasons, and its clean silhouette is especially striking against winter light.
Ilex × meserveae ‘Pendleton Miller’ — A Holly with Local History
Location: Rhododendron Glen
This charming weeping, semi-upright holly is more than just a distinctive garden plant, it’s also a living connection to regional history. Ilex × meserveae ‘Pendleton Miller’ was named for Pendleton “Penny” Miller, a notable figure in the Pacific Northwest horticultural community. Having this cultivar at Bloedel Reserve adds a meaningful layer of local heritage to the landscape. With its graceful, arching form and rich evergreen color, it brings both beauty and story to the Rhododendron Glen.
A Winter Invitation
Holly may be synonymous with the holiday season, but at Bloedel Reserve it offers inspiration far beyond decoration. Each species enriches the landscape in its own way, feeding birds, shaping space, or honoring local legacy.
As you walk the Reserve this winter, take a moment to notice these quiet but captivating plants. They shine brightest this time of year and remind us that even in the slow season, the garden is alive with character and meaning.
