Foster Holly - Ilex x attenuata 'Fosteri'

Foster Holly is an evergreen tree belonging to the genus Ilex and the family Aquifoliaceae. It is also known as the American Christmas or English Holly. It is native to the U.S., can grow up to 50 feet tall, and has a trunk diameter of up to 20 inches.

Holly's Uses

It is an ornamental tree often used for landscaping, particularly in winter when its bright red berries and glossy green leaves are commonly associated with Christmas decorations. Due to its dense, spiny foliage, the tree is also used for hedges and privacy screens.

Appearance

The tree leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, with a sharp, pointed shape. In spring, the tree produces tiny white blossoms and bright red berries made in the fall. The berries are a valuable food source for many birds and mammals, including the American Robin, Eastern Bluebird, and Cedar Waxwing.

This tree is a versatile and hardy evergreen shrub that can be planted in various locations.

1. Soil: It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.0-7.0). It can thrive in various soil types, including sandy or clay soils.
2. Climate: It is a cold-hardy shrub and can live through temperatures as low as -10°F. It is also tolerant to heat and humidity, making it a good choice for various climates.
3. Space: It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide, so make sure you plant it in an area with enough space to accommodate its mature size.
4. Landscape use is an excellent choice for hedges, screens, and foundation plantings. It can also be used as a specimen plant or grouped in a mass planting for a dramatic effect.
5. Care: It is a low-maintenance shrub that requires little pruning or fertilizer. It is also resistant to most pests and diseases.
6. Sunlight: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, so it's best to plant it in an area that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Advantages Of Planting Evergreens And Hollies

As the name implies, evergreens and hollies hold their leaves even in winter. The category includes a few broadleaf species like holly, but most members are conifers.

The primary characteristics that unite conifers are needle leaves and the presence of seed cones. Conifers come in huge sizes, from ground covers to conical-shaped trees well over 100 feet tall. They can also add color to the garden with hues like blue-green, gray, silver, and yellow. These fascinating plants offer a slew of benefits to the garden, including wildlife habitat, wind protection, year-round privacy, topiary, and exceptional shade.

As a wildlife habitat, this plant and evergreens offer thick cover primarily for nesting birds. Dense evergreens like blue spruce, eastern red cedar, or Douglas fir help to camouflage nests from threats like crows.

The same cover protects birds and squirrels from cold winds in winter. Evergreens shelter animals from solid winds, protecting the more expansive garden. Evergreens' ability to function as windbreaks can benefit the garden, shielding weaker plants from being beaten down in high winds. Species that perform exceptionally well include Colorado blue spruce, Black Hills spruce, Norway spruce, and Canaan fir.

The dense thicket supplied by tall, columnar evergreens like arborvitae can block prying eyes as quickly as it blocks the wind. Eastern red cedar is another species that forms a relatively solid mass. This quality is also suitable for noise control.

The towering spires the arborvitae create are attractive, but topiary pruning can enhance their appearance. Typically, hollies and yews are considered the top choices for topiary.

Finally, the dense shade created by this holly and evergreens can benefit the garden by keeping the ground below moist for long periods. Like creeping juniper, plants growing next to evergreen ground covers can tap into this extra water source.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Plant bare root trees during the dormant season in early spring or late fall (November through April). Dig the hole twice as wide as the roots so the soil is well-drained. Position the tree so the root flare is at or just above ground level. Fill the hole back with the soil you dug from and water. Maintain soil moisture, especially in the tree's early years, by providing deep, regular watering. Apply a 2-4 inch mulch away from the trunk at the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune trees during the first few seasons to establish strength and resilience, remove damaged branches, and continue maintenance pruning as the tree matures. Regularly inspect for pests and diseases and apply integrated pest management practices. Protect young trees from mechanical damage and extreme temperatures with tree guards, and stake them if necessary for support, removing the stakes after one or two years.

Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.

We only accept returns on plants verified dead. If you think your plants have died, we offer a 1 year warranty, please use use this File a Claim Link to verify dead plants and start with return warranty process.