Contents
Description
Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster is a species of holly that belongs to the family Aquifoliaceae. This evergreen shrub is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a narrow, columnar shape with dense foliage that varies in color from bright green to dark green. Its leaves are glossy, leathery, and serrated, measuring about 2 to 3 inches in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster is a beautiful plant that can add a touch of elegance to any landscape. Its narrow, columnar shape makes it a great choice for tight spaces, while its dense foliage provides year-round interest. The leaves of this holly are glossy, leathery, and serrated, measuring about 2 to 3 inches in length. They vary in color from bright green to dark green, and the plant produces small white flowers in the spring. The flowers are followed by red berries that persist through the winter, providing a source of food for birds.
Care Guide
If you’re thinking about adding Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster to your garden, here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, more often during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster prefers acidic, well-drained soil. If your soil is too alkaline, amend it with compost or sulfur.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. If you live in a hot climate, provide afternoon shade to protect the foliage from scorching.
- Hardiness Zones: Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
While Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster is generally a healthy plant, it can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
- Scale insects: These tiny insects can infest the leaves and stems of the plant, causing yellowing and leaf drop. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown, circular spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found growing in wetlands, swamps, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster deer resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is considered deer resistant.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall.
Q: Can I grow Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room for its roots to grow and is watered regularly.
Q: How do I prune Ilex Attenuata Sunny Foster?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, and shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
- Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon Holly)
- Ilex opaca (American Holly)
- Ilex aquifolium (English Holly)
- Ilex x meserveae (Blue Holly)
References
- Holly Society of America. (n.d.). Ilex Attenuata – Sunny Foster. Retrieved from https://hollysocam.org/ilex-attenuata-sunny-foster/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ilex Attenuata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277522&isprofile=0&
- University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. (2020). Ilex Attenuata. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/fp496
