Contents
Description
Ilex Meserveae Blue Princess, commonly known as Blue Princess Holly, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family. This plant is a hybrid of two species, namely Ilex aquifolium and Ilex rugosa. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive and glossy foliage, beautiful berries, and tolerance to harsh weather conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
Blue Princess Holly can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has an upright and dense growth habit with a pyramidal shape. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a spiny margin. They measure around 2-4 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 berries are about 1/4 inch in diameter and persist on the plant throughout the winter.
Care Guide
Blue Princess Holly thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH level of 5.0-6.5. This plant requires moderate watering, especially during the first growing season. It should be watered deeply once a week, but not overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization should be done once a year in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Blue Princess Holly prefers partial to full sun exposure and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blue Princess Holly is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot disease. Spider mites and scale insects can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Leaf spot disease can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Blue Princess Holly is native to North America and can be found growing in the eastern United States. It prefers to grow in areas with moist, well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure. This plant is commonly used in landscaping as a hedge or a specimen plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Blue Princess Holly drought-tolerant?
A: While Blue Princess Holly can tolerate drought conditions, it prefers moderate watering to keep its soil moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Blue Princess Holly?
A: Blue Princess Holly should be fertilized once a year in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
Q: Can Blue Princess Holly grow in full shade?
A: Blue Princess Holly prefers partial to full sun exposure, but it can tolerate some shade.
Q: How tall can Blue Princess Holly grow?
A: Blue Princess Holly can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Ilex aquifolium
- Ilex opaca
- Ilex crenata
- Ilex glabra
References
- “Ilex x meserveae ‘Blue Princess’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281118.
- “Blue Princess Holly.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/blue-princess-holly-2132949.
- “Ilex x meserveae ‘Blue Princess’.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/536/blue-princess-holly.php.
