Ilex aquifolium 'FEROX ARGENTEA'

This holly is a fantastic delicacy for collectors. A sport of another variety called Ferox has rich, creamy white margins, hence the name Ferox Argentea. Argentea in Latin means silver and Ferox means dangerous. Both describes features of the evergreen leaves, firstly its colour and secondly the spines that are not only along the margins but also on the surface. Well, they are unpleasant but cannot be more dangerous than kitten’s spurs. This variety is a male plant and can pollinate other female hollies cultivated for their berries.

Variegated hollies are versatile in use. They can stand alone as attractive medium-sized specimen shrubs, or they can be a part of a large mixed border or landscape combined with other evergreen plans such as conifers, rhododendrons or cherry laurels. Once established it grows medium fast or fast and can easily be pruned so you can soon model a desired shape. Pruning in April will encourage new growths, trimming by end July is ideal for shaping.

Grow hollies in moist but well-drained, light and fertile soil. They can take periods of drought once established. Hollies do best in full sun but can also grow in shade. This variety proved very hardy even in full sun in winter. However, if you live in a region with cold winters and long-lasting frost we recommend growing it in position sheltered from drying winds, and preferably shaded from winter sun. Before and during winter when the soil is not frozen provide good watering. Hardy to -24°C (USDA zone 6), it withstands occasional swings a little lower.

Last update 06-02-2010