Species American holly Guide
dense, pyramidal tree with dark green, glossy leaves and brown trunk

American holly

Ilex opaca 'Jersey Knight'

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Greenish-white Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

black Fruits Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

American Holly is an evergreen shrub that does best in moist, well-drained soil. It should be watered deeply and infrequently. During the first growing season, water the plant 1 to 2 times per week. During subsequent seasons, water every 2 to 3 weeks. In the summer months, water the soil deeply and allow the top layer to dry before watering deeply again. During the winter months, water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.

sunlight

American holly (Ilex opaca 'Jersey Knight') grows best in full sun, meaning it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, summer temperatures in some regions can get too hot for American holly, so partial shade (4-6 hours of sunlight) might be necessary. Be sure to check the temperature in your area and your holly plant's needs before making any decisions about sunlight.

pruning

American holly (Ilex opaca 'Jersey Knight') should be pruned twice a year. In the fall, light pruning should be done to shape and thin the plant. This should only involve removing a few outer branches and does not require a large overhaul of the plant’s overall shape. In the spring, heavier pruning can be done to control the plant's size and shape. This includes pruning any dead or damaged branches and removing overgrown branches with excess foliage. Be careful not to over-prune American holly, as it is slow to recover from heavy pruning.