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Description
Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea, also known as the Golden King Holly, is a beautiful plant with golden leaves that add a touch of elegance to any garden. It is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The plant has a dense and bushy growth habit that makes it an excellent choice for hedges and borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
The Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea has glossy, golden leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed. The leaves are around 2-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant produces small, white flowers in late spring or early summer, which are followed by bright red berries in the fall. The plant’s bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips:Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Make sure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and scale insects. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests and diseases, and treat them promptly with appropriate fungicides and insecticides.
Habitat
Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea is native to Europe and is commonly found in gardens and parks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I prune my Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea?
A: Prune the plant once a year in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.Q: Can I propagate Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from semi-hardwood cuttings in the summer.Q: Is Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain if ingested.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Ilex Altaclerensis Belgica Aurea:
- Ilex aquifolium (Common Holly)
- Ilex x meserveae (Blue Holly)
- Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly)
- Ilex opaca (American Holly)
References
- “Ilex altaclerensis Belgica Aurea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a593.
- “Ilex altaclerensis Belgica Aurea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/258200/Ilex-altaclerensis-Belgica-Aurea/Details.
- “Golden King Holly.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/golden-king-holly-3269405.
