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Holly, Pride of Houston Yaupon
Ilex vomitoria 'Pride of Houston'
‘Pride of Houston’ Yaupon Holly is a superior selection of the Texas native Yaupon Holly, chosen for its uniform growth habit and abundant berry production. This female-only cultivar is propagated through stem cuttings, as it does not grow true from seed. However, even with vegetative propagation, success rates can vary, making high-quality specimens sought after. Its dense, upright form and ability to thrive in a range of conditions make it a reliable choice for landscapes across Texas. It typically grows 15 to 20 feet tall and 8 to 12 feet wide. When planting together, space them 6 to 10 feet apart.
One of the standout qualities of ‘Pride of Houston’ is its extreme tolerance to both heat and cold. It performed exceptionally well during Texas’s historic freeze, proving its resilience in temperatures that devastated many other evergreen shrubs. Equally, it withstands the intense summer heat, thriving in full sun with little maintenance. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for urban and rural landscapes alike, whether used as a hedge, screen, or specimen tree. It is also highly drought-tolerant once established and resistant to pests and diseases.
Like all Yaupon Hollies, ‘Pride of Houston’ thrives in both acidic and alkaline soils and tolerates poor drainage better than most hollies, making it suitable for areas with periodic wet conditions. Its small evergreen leaves provide year-round structure, and female plants produce striking red berries in the fall and winter, attracting birds and adding seasonal interest. Deer typically avoid Yaupon Holly, adding to its reliability in Texas landscapes.
For best results, plant ‘Pride of Houston’ Yaupon Holly in well-draining soil and provide occasional deep watering during extended droughts. If shaping is desired, light pruning can be done in late winter. This cultivar is an excellent long-term investment for Texas landscapes, offering year-round appeal with minimal care.
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Cold & Heat Tolerant |
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Drought Tolerant |
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Wildlife-Friendly berries |
Flower Color:Yellow-White
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Height:15-20 Feet
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Spread:8-12 Feet
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Spacing:8-12 feet
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USDA Hardiness Zone 7b
Available Sizes:
| Item |
Description |
| HOL-HOU-15 |
#015 HOLLY,YAUPON PRIDE OF HOUSTON |
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| HOL-HOU-30 |
#030 HOLLY,YAUPON PRIDE OF HOUSTON |
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| HOL-HOU-45 |
#045 HOLLY,YAUPON PRIDE OF HOUSTON |
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Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Full Sun |
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Full Sun to Part Shade |
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Texas Native
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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Toxic to Pets
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