All the privacy shrubs in the world won’t give your home and yard a feeling of solitude and seclusion if the plants keep getting decimated by hungry deer. It can be frustrating to have to think twice about adding plants if you have a deer problem. Fortunately, deer-resistant privacy shrubs do exist. One of the best options for a beautiful privacy shrub that won’t be nibbled by deer is the gorgeous lusterleaf holly (Ilex latifolia).

Lusterleaf holly isn’t just a good privacy shrub because of its deer resistance; it also has the advantage of having large evergreen leaves, which ensure that your privacy stays protected all year round. These hollies also have charming flowers in spring; these are a hit with bees, and their red winter berries are popular with birds. This makes lusterleaf holly an ideal addition for anyone hoping to make their garden more appealing to pollinators or to turn their yard into a bird haven while also giving themselves a bit more year-round privacy.

Native to Japan and China, lusterleaf holly is hardy in USDA zones 6 through 9. With a height of around 25 feet, lusterleaf hollies are showstoppers in the landscape thanks to their size and rounded or pyramidal shape. They thrive in locations with full-to-part sun, and while they are tolerant of a variety of soil textures, they can’t grow well in alkaline soil. So, be sure to measure the pH of your soil before planting your lusterleaf holly and amend its acidity if necessary. 

Lusterleaf holly is relatively drought tolerant once established. This makes it a good option for anyone trying to put together a landscape that isn’t just deer resistant but is also water-wise. While lusterleaf holly is a stunning specimen shrub on its own, you can also opt for layering your privacy evergreens by planting your holly in a grouping with other plants and shrubs that thrive in similar conditions.