The shortest holly shrub that I would recommend is the ‘Bordeaux’ cultivar of the native yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria). This particular variety is known for its compact size, making it a great choice for those looking for a smaller holly shrub.
One of the standout features of ‘Bordeaux’ is its dense and fine-textured growth habit. The shrub forms a thick foliage that creates a lush and full appearance. This can be especially appealing for those who want to create a visually striking garden or landscape design.
The leaves of ‘Bordeaux’ are another noteworthy aspect of this dwarf cultivar. They emerge in a rich maroon color, which adds a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the shrub. This can be a lovely contrast to the more common green foliage found in many other holly varieties.
It is worth mentioning that ‘Bordeaux’ does not produce berries. While some gardeners may prefer holly shrubs that bear fruit, others may appreciate the clean and tidy look of a berry-free shrub. This can be particularly advantageous for those who want a low-maintenance plant.
In terms of size, ‘Bordeaux’ typically reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet, with a spread of 3 to 5 feet. This compact growth habit makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, container plantings, or as a border around other plants or walkways.
Personally, I have had great success using ‘Bordeaux’ in a couple of different landscaping projects. In one instance, I incorporated several of these dwarf holly shrubs along a garden path to create a neat and uniform border. The maroon foliage provided a striking contrast against the surrounding greenery, adding visual interest to the space.
Another project where I utilized ‘Bordeaux’ was in a small courtyard garden. The compact size of this holly shrub was perfect for the limited space available. It added a touch of elegance and structure to the area without overwhelming the other plants and features in the garden.
The ‘Bordeaux’ dwarf cultivar of yaupon holly is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and low-maintenance holly shrub. With its dense and fine-textured growth habit, maroon-colored leaves, and lack of berries, it can bring a unique and attractive element to any garden or landscape design.
