topal holly
Ilex attenuata
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Air Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
6 - 9
Flowers:
Greenish-white Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Fruits:
black Fruits Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Topal holly should be watered thoroughly once every 2-3 weeks (or when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch). Ideally, the plant should be thoroughly watered until water droplets start seeping out of the bottom of the pot. During flowering, it may require more frequent watering. To avoid root rot, make sure the soil drains well. Additionally, avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.
sunlight
Topal holly, also known as Ilex attenuata, is a plant species that thrives in full sunlight. In order to ensure optimal growth and health, this species needs a minimum of between 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. In certain climates, such as the humid Southeast, the plant may even need more, as much as 8 hours a day, especially during mid-summer months. This species of holly prefers the morning sunlight and can function with some shade in the afternoon. Direct sunlight, however, is not the only light requirement for this species of holly. For topal holly to reach its full potential, it will also need some indirect, reflected sunlight. This indirect light should come from nearby trees or from the sun reflecting off of walls or other structures in the immediate vicinity. This indirect light helps to brighten the environment and provide a more balanced amount of light for the plant. Overall, the ideal light situation for a topal holly plant would be 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day and some indirect, reflected sunlight near the plant throughout the day.
pruning
Topal Holly plants should be pruned once per year in late winter or early spring (February - March). Pruning should be done in moderate amounts to maintain the desired shape and size of the shrub. It is best to remove only about 1-third of the oldest and most unruly branches. This helps to encourage a fuller, more natural looking shape. Pruning is also important for removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Regular pruning also helps to keep the shrub healthy and free of pests and diseases.