Adonis Male Pollinator Holly. This Holly cultivar was introduced by the U. S. National Arboretum and is a cross between Ilex latifolia and Ilex 'Nellie R. Stevens.' It is a very upright conical form and is exceptional with its dark glossy green leaves which are close in appearance to 'Mary Nell'. But to me the most outstanding quality of this selection is its flowers. It was introduced as a male pollinator, but when it flowers it is by far the most showy Holly in flower that I have ever seen. One would scarcely consider planting a Holly for its flowers, but this one is the exception. Its ultimate size could be quite large, up to 15-20 ft., but it does have a rather narrow profile.
Zones 6-9
