Species topal holly
Red fruit with green leaves and brown stems.

topal holly

Ilex attenuata

Topal Holly is a large evergreen shrub native to California. It is a low-growing species, typically reaching 2–4 m in height with a spread of up to 5–6 m. Its small, oval-shaped dark-green leaves are highly shiny, with toothed margins. Its flowers are small, inconspicuous and usually white in color. The species produces attractive blue-black fruits during autumn and winter that feed a wide range of wildlife, including birds and small mammals. These fruits contain a large amount of vitamin C and act as an important food source in northern areas. The plant's thick foliage provides shelter and protection for many species and can create a great wildlife haven in gardens. Topal Holly is drought tolerant once established, making it a great addition to any garden.

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.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Topal holly typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map