How Fast Do Holly Bushes Grow?
Most hollies are slow to moderate growers, adding about 6–12 inches a year, though fast hybrids like Nellie R. Stevens and Foster holly can put on 2–3 feet annually once established. Growth speeds up with full sun, acidic well-drained soil, and steady water.
As a group, hollies are slow to moderate growers. Many evergreen types add roughly six inches to a foot of height per year, which is part of why mature specimen hollies are so valued — and so patience is required when starting small.
Some hollies grow much faster. The hybrid Nellie R. Stevens and Foster holly can gain two to three feet a year once established, which is exactly why they are the go-to choices for a quick evergreen privacy screen. Yaupon holly is also relatively fast, while Japanese holly and inkberry tend toward the slower end.
Whatever the species, growing conditions set the pace. A holly in full sun, in moist, acidic, well-drained soil, watered steadily through its first years, will grow noticeably faster than the same plant in poor, dry, or alkaline ground. Give it what it wants early and it establishes sooner and speeds up.