When it comes to holly plants, two popular varieties that often get compared are Blue Maid and Blue Princess. While they both belong to the same family and share some similarities, there are some distinct differences between the two.
1. Appearance:
Blue Maid is known for its beautiful, dark red berries that stand out against its lustrous bluish-green foliage. The berries are small and abundant, creating a striking contrast against the leaves. On the other hand, Blue Princess also produces dark red berries, but it is the foliage that steals the show. The bluish-green leaves of Blue Princess are more prominent and vibrant, making it a visually appealing choice for landscaping.
2. Berry Production:
When it comes to berry production, Blue Princess takes the lead. It is considered one of the best berry producers among holly varieties. The abundance of berries on Blue Princess can create a stunning display and attract birds to your garden. Blue Maid, while still producing berries, may not be as prolific as Blue Princess.
3. Growth Habit and Size:
In terms of growth habit and size, both Blue Maid and Blue Princess are similar. They are both compact, dense, and upright shrubs that can reach a height of around 8-10 feet. Their compact nature makes them suitable for small gardens or as foundation plants. However, it’s worth noting that Blue Princess tends to have a more uniform and rounded shape compared to Blue Maid, which can have a slightly more irregular growth pattern.
4. Hardiness and Tolerances:
Both Blue Maid and Blue Princess are generally hardy and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. They are known to be adaptable to different soil types, including clay and sandy soils. They also have a good tolerance for urban pollution, making them suitable for planting in urban areas. However, it’s always advisable to provide them with well-drained soil and some protection from harsh winds.
5. Personal Experience:
In my own gardening experience, I have found that Blue Princess tends to be a more popular choice among landscapers and homeowners. Its vibrant foliage and excellent berry production make it a standout plant in any garden. Blue Maid, while still beautiful, may not be as widely recognized or sought after.
To summarize, Blue Maid and Blue Princess are both stunning holly varieties with their own unique characteristics. Blue Maid stands out with its dark red berries that contrast against its bluish-green foliage, while Blue Princess shines with its vibrant foliage and prolific berry production. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of your garden or landscaping project.
