Landscape Uses
Style Tags
South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.
Moderate water needs — prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soils. Water 2-3x per week during establishment. After establishment, 1-2x per week in dry season. Tolerates periodic flooding in low-lying areas — one of the most wetland-tolerant native shrubs available. SFWMD drought exempt as Florida native.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Acid-forming slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving plants (e.g., azalea/camellia formula). Chelated iron if deficiency observed.
Schedule: February. Acid-forming fertilizer to maintain preferred pH 4.5-6.5. Correct iron deficiency if observed in high-pH soils.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 5–10 ft
- Mature Width
- 4–8 ft
- Growth Rate
- moderate
- Water Demand
- 4/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida
- Installed Cost
- $
- USDA Zones
- 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 4/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Inkberry Holly at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Inkberry Holly grow in South Florida?
Inkberry Holly has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Inkberry Holly safe for pets?
Inkberry Holly is not safe for pets. Berries mildly toxic to dogs if ingested in quantity — causes vomiting and GI upset. Low risk due to small berry size and typically unpalatable taste. Advise clients with dogs, particularly during berry season (fall-winter).
How much water does Inkberry Holly need in South Florida?
Moderate water needs (4/10). Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.
Can Inkberry Holly tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Inkberry Holly has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Inkberry Holly available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Inkberry Holly is classified as: protected. Florida native — protected from HOA prohibition under Florida Statute 720.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Florida native — protected from HOA prohibition under Florida Statute 720.3075.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Florida native — protected. Excellent for Broward County wet area, rain garden, and native landscape applications.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Florida native — protected. Excellent for Palm Beach County rain gardens, wet areas, and native landscape requirements.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Florida native — protected. Good for Collier County wet flatwood edges, pond margins, and rain garden applications.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Florida native — protected. Limited natural occurrence in Monroe County.
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
Need a Spec Sheet?
Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.
Ask about Inkberry Holly
Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.