Contents
Description
Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea is a beautiful evergreen shrub belonging to the Aquifoliaceae family. It is commonly known as Silver Hedgehog Holly due to its distinctive spiky foliage with silver margins. This shrub is native to Europe and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a slow growth rate and can live up to 100 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
The Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea has a unique and eye-catching appearance. Its evergreen leaves are dark green with silver margins, which gives it a spiky appearance. The leaves are also glossy and have a leathery texture. The shrub produces small white flowers in spring, which are followed by red berries in autumn. The berries persist throughout winter and provide food for birds.
Care Guide
Water: The Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate drought once established. Water the shrub deeply once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization: Fertilize the shrub in spring using a balanced fertilizer. Apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Soil: The Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not like waterlogged soil.
Sunlight: The shrub prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate full sun, but it may scorch in hot climates.
Hardiness Zones: The Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can occasionally suffer from leaf spot, scale insects, and spider mites. These can be treated using an insecticide or fungicide spray.
Habitat
The Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea is native to Europe and can be found in woodlands, hedgerows, and gardens. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade. It is often used as a hedge plant due to its spiky foliage and slow growth rate.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in containers as long as it has enough room to grow and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I prune my Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea?
A: The shrub should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Prune to shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Is the Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea poisonous to pets?
A: Yes, the shrub is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep pets away from the shrub.
Q: Can I grow the Ilex Aquifolium Ferox Argentea from seed?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown from seed, but it can take several years to reach maturity.
Related Plants
- Ilex aquifolium
- Ilex aquifolium ‘Argentea Marginata’
- Ilex aquifolium ‘Aureomarginata’
- Ilex aquifolium ‘Crassifolia’
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- Huxley, A., Griffiths, M., & Levy, M. (Eds.). (1992). The new Royal Horticultural Society dictionary of gardening. Macmillan Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ilex aquifolium ferox argentea. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c680
