Contents
Description
Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver, also known as Holly Handsworth New Silver, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that originated in the United Kingdom. It belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family and is known for its beautiful variegated foliage, which features silver margins and green centers. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide, making it a popular choice for hedges, borders, or as a specimen plant in gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
The Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver features striking variegated leaves that are 5-7 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The leaves have a spiny margin and are glossy green with silver edges. In late spring or early summer, the plant produces small white flowers that are followed by bright red berries in winter, which are popular with birds. The plant’s bark is gray and smooth, and the branches are sturdy and upright.
Care Guide
The Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions, but it prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, reduce watering but do not let the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in early fall to encourage growth and flowering.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend heavy clay soils with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorching.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Spider mites
- Scale insects
- Leaf spot
- Rust
- Phytophthora root rot
To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing it with adequate moisture, sunlight, and nutrients. Remove any diseased or damaged leaves or branches promptly.
Habitat
The Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver is native to the United Kingdom and is commonly found in woodlands, hedgerows, and parks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. The plant is popular with birds, which eat its berries in winter.
Question and Answer
Q1: Can I prune my Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver?
A1: Yes, you can prune the plant to maintain its shape and size. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q2: How often should I fertilize my Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver?
A2: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in early fall to encourage growth and flowering.
Q3: Is the Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver toxic to pets?
A3: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Q4: Can I grow the Ilex Aquifolium Handsworth New Silver in a container?
A4: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it has adequate drainage and is not exposed to extreme temperatures.
Related Plants
- Ilex Aquifolium ‘Argentea Marginata’
- Ilex Aquifolium ‘Aurea Marginata’
- Ilex aquifolium ‘Ferox Argentea’
- Ilex Aquifolium ‘J.C. van Tol’
References
- RHS Plants: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/60418/ilex-aquifolium-handsworth-new-silver/details
- Missouri Botanical Garden: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=262445
- Gardenia: https://www.gardenia.net/plant/ilex-aquifolium-handsworth-new-silver-holly
