Soft Touch Holly - 3 Gallon

Soft Touch Holly

Compact, Evergreen Shrub with Smooth Foliage for Low Hedges and Borders

The Soft Touch Holly (Ilex crenata 'Soft Touch') is a low-growing, evergreen shrub admired for its mounded form and glossy, spineless leaves. Unlike traditional hollies, its foliage is soft to the touch—making it a safe and appealing choice for high-traffic areas. Ideal for borders, foundation plantings, and groundcover, this holly brings year-round texture and structure to your landscape without the need for constant maintenance.

Why You'll Love It

Tidy and Compact: Naturally mounded shape stays neat with minimal pruning
Soft, Spineless Leaves: Friendly for children, pets, and walkways
Evergreen All Year: Glossy green foliage holds its color through all seasons
Low Maintenance: Deer-resistant, drought-tolerant once established, and resilient
Versatile: Excellent alternative to boxwoods for edging, borders, and small hedges

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Ilex crenata 'Soft Touch'
Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: 2–3 ft tall × 3–4 ft wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil
Water: Moderate; needs regular watering until established
Hardiness Zones: USDA 5–9

Where to Use It

As a low hedge or formal border

Along walkways, patios, or driveways

In foundation plantings or mixed shrub beds

As a deer-resistant alternative to boxwoods

In containers or small-space gardens

Locally Grown & Shipped to Your Door

Our Soft Touch Holly shrubs are locally grown in our historic greenhouse and shipped directly to your doorstep—healthy, hearty, and ready to enhance your landscape.