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Description
Ilex Aquifolium Myrtifolia Aurea Maculata, commonly known as Golden Variegated Holly, is a striking evergreen shrub that belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family. It is a hybrid of two species of holly, Ilex aquifolium and Ilex myrtifolia. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, and it can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The Golden Variegated Holly produces small white flowers in spring and ornamental red berries in winter, making it an ideal choice for gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
The Golden Variegated Holly has a unique appearance with its bright yellow and green variegated leaves. The leaves are small, shiny, and spiny, measuring about 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The plant is dense and compact, with a rounded shape that is perfect for hedges and borders. The small white flowers produced in spring are followed by bright red berries that persist throughout winter, providing a stunning display of color.
Care Guide
To keep the Golden Variegated Holly healthy and thriving, it requires proper care and maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this evergreen shrub:- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: The Golden Variegated Holly prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant grows best in partial shade to full sun.- Hardiness Zones: This shrub is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Golden Variegated Holly is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:- Scale insects: These pests suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation.- Anthracnose: Another fungal disease that causes leaf spotting and twig dieback.To prevent these problems, it is important to maintain good hygiene and sanitation by removing any fallen leaves and debris from around the plant. Regular inspections can help identify any issues early and prevent them from spreading.
Habitat
The Golden Variegated Holly is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in woodlands, hedgerows, and scrublands. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. In gardens and landscaping, it can be used as a hedge, border, or specimen plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I propagate the Golden Variegated Holly from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer or early fall.
Q: Is the Golden Variegated Holly toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant contains compounds that can be toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: Does the Golden Variegated Holly require pruning?
A: Yes, regular pruning can help maintain the shape and size of the plant and promote healthy growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Golden Variegated Holly?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and again in mid-summer.
Related Plants
– Ilex aquifolium (Common Holly)- Ilex myrtifolia (Myrtle Leaf Holly)- Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly)- Ilex x attenuata (Foster Holly)
References
– “Ilex aquifolium ‘Myrtifolia Aurea Maculata’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=265710&isprofile=0&.- “Golden Variegated Holly.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13318/Ilex-aquifolium-Myrtifolia-Aurea-Maculata/Details.
