Grace Hybrid American Hollies
Waxy Coating - protection against salt and pollutants

The waxy coating on the foliage of Grace Hybrid Hollies that is responsible for the extremely attractive sheen, is also a protection against salts and pollutants. All plants have limits as to the amounts of salts and pollution they can tolerate before damage is shown. The Grace Hybrid Hollies is an excellent choice in harsh conditions because they have a higher tolerance in both categories.

Bulletin #14, published by the Holly Society Of America explains that, "hollies planted in the most polluted areas have done well."

1. "Hollies are among the few broad-leafed evergreens which resist high levels of dirt and soot and flourish under city conditions."
2. "Hollies have been known to resist such air pollutants as carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide."
3. "Hollies have been found to withstand the intense heat of pavements and buildings."

The Holly Society of America Also reports on the effect of salt on holly"

"Holly has been proven to rate high amount the ornamentals which are tolerant."

Gene Eisenbeiss, research horticulturist of the U.S. National arboretum states:

"We have observed no injury on any ilex which we can contribute to air pollution."

Penn State University observed 0% of susceptibility by American hollies when exposed to .25 ppm ozone for eight hours. Many other trees studied recorded up to 80% susceptibility.