And How to Choose the Right One forYour Richmond Landscape

When it comes to winter interest,structure, and year-round beauty, hollies are some of the most reliable plants for Central Virginia landscapes. They thrive in Richmond’s climate,offer evergreen color through all four seasons, and bring a holiday feel that’s especially welcome this time of year. But not all hollies are the same — and landscape designers often rely on certain cultivars because of their performance, durability, and appearance in our region.

Below, we’re breaking down the four hollies landscape architects and designers most often select for projects across Richmond, Henrico, Glen Allen, Midlothian, and beyond. Whether you're refreshing a foundation bed or installing a full property landscape,these options offer beauty and reliability year after year.

‍

1. Nellie R. Stevens Holly

The Most Popular Holly for Richmond Landscapes

If you’ve driven through a newly developed neighborhood or a mature community in Central Virginia, chances areyou’ve seen Nellie R. Stevens. It’s one of the most frequently installed hollies — and for good reason.

Why designers love it:

• Fast-growing and highly adaptable to Virginia’s clay soils
• Dense, glossy evergreen foliage that looks good year-round
• Naturally pyramidal form ideal for screening or anchoring plant beds
• Consistent berry production, often without needing a pollinator
• Low maintenance and very predictable in shape

Best for:
Homeowners wanting a dependable, beautiful evergreen that delivers privacy and curb appeal with minimal fuss.

‍

2. American Holly (Ilex opaca)

A Native Virginia Classic with a Timeless Christmas Look

For homeowners who want something both native and iconically traditional, American holly is a standout choice. With its matte green leaves and bright red berries, it delivers that classic holiday aesthetic right outside your front door.

Why designers choose it:

• Native to Virginia and highly suitable for naturalistic landscapes
• Loved by birds and local wildlife
• Beautiful berry display with a softer, more woodland feel
• Excellent specimen tree for large properties

Keep in mind:
American holly grows more slowly and typically requires both a male and female plant for heavy berry set. But when it’s happy, it’s gorgeous.

Best for:
Properties seeking a native, traditional evergreen with strong ecological value.

‍

3. Oakland Holly (Red Holly Series)

For a Modern, Architectural Evergreen Look

Part of the beloved Red Hollyseries, the Oakland holly offers structure and sophistication. Designers love it as a more architectural alternative to Nellie R. Stevens.

Why it performs well in Richmond:

• Upright, formal shape perfect for foundation plantings
• Deep evergreen foliage with new growth that flushes burgundy
• Uniform, tidy appearance
• Great cold and heat tolerance for Central Virginia

Best for:
Homeowners who want a polished, contemporary evergreen that elevates the landscape without overpowering it.

‍

4. Winterberry (Ilex verticillata)

Unmatched Winter Color for Richmond Landscapes

If your goal is maximum holiday impact, nothing beats the bright, bold berries of winterberry holly.This deciduous holly loses its leaves in fall, leaving behind large clusters of vibrant red berries that light up a winter landscape.

Why designers love it:

• Incredible winter interest — looks decorative even without foliage
• Native to the Eastern U.S.
• Thrives in damp soils and works beautifully in low-lying or rain garden areas
• A great complement to evergreens in mixed borders

Best for:
Adding dramatic seasonal color and texture to a Richmond garden or landscape installation.

‍

Which Holly Is Right for Your Richmond Property?

Choosing the right holly depends on your goals — privacy, structure, wildlife value, color, or holiday appeal. Our team installs hollies throughout the Richmond metro region, including Henrico, Chesterfield, Midlothian, Glen Allen, Goochland, Powhatan, and the surrounding areas. We know how each of these cultivars performs in real-world landscapes and can help you select the best option for your site, soil, and design vision.

Whether you’re planning a full landscape installation or adding one or two signature evergreens to refresh your home's curb appeal, hollies offer beauty that lasts throughout the year.

Ready to Add a Holly to Your Landscape?

James River Nurseries has been designing and installing landscapes across Central Virginia for more than 40years. If you're interested in adding one of these designer-favorite hollies toyour property, our team is here to help.

Reach out today to schedule a consultation and discover which holly is the perfect fit for your Richmond landscape.