Overview

A dense evergreen shrub with glossy dark-green leaves, white spring flowers, and red berries that gives South Tampa hedges and foundation beds reliable year-round structure.

Mature Size and Habit

It matures about 5 to 8 feet tall and wide without pruning. Regular maintenance keeps it lower, though enough root and bed space is still required.

Best Landscape Uses

Use it for hedges, privacy, foundation planting, property corners, mixed shrub borders, and large containers. It responds well to formal or rounded shaping.

Sunlight

Full sun to partial sun produces healthy dense growth. Berry production is strongest with good light, while deep shade reduces foliage density.

Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation

Provide well-drained soil and regular water during establishment. Mature shrubs tolerate moderate drought but perform better with deep irrigation during extended dry periods.

Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida

Fall through early spring offers the best planting conditions. Warm-season installation also succeeds with dependable watering and a broad mulch ring.

Pruning and Maintenance

Prune after the spring growth flush to maintain height and shape. Selective thinning improves light and airflow better than repeated hard shearing.

Wildlife Value

Flowers serve bees and other pollinators, while red berries feed birds. The dense evergreen branches provide shelter and nesting cover.

Cold and Heat Sensitivity

It tolerates Tampa heat and winter temperatures well. New foliage can scorch in extreme reflected heat when irrigation is inadequate.

Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings

Leaves carry a terminal spine, and berries are toxic if eaten. Keep the shrub away from narrow paths and areas used closely by children or pets.

Invasive Concerns

Dwarf Burford holly is not considered invasive in maintained Florida landscapes. Remove volunteer seedlings if berries germinate outside the intended bed.

Helpful Resources

For region-specific care guidance, review the UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions website and follow local watering rules.