Description
Ilex × meserveae 'Heckenfee' 80-100 cm | Blue holly
Introducing the Ilex × meserveae 'Heckenfee', an exceptional cultivar commonly known as blue holly. This hybrid holly is celebrated for its striking foliage and robust nature, making it a distinguished choice for both hedging and solitary planting.
Ilex × meserveae 'Heckenfee' stands out with its blue-green leaves that maintain their luster across all seasons. In the spring, delicate white flowers bloom, giving way to vibrant red berries in the autumn, adding a splash of color to the landscape during the cooler months.
The main features of Ilex × meserveae 'Heckenfee'
The Ilex 'Heckenfee' boasts several key features that make it a versatile and popular plant among gardeners:
- This evergreen maintains a year-round presence with its unique blue-green foliage, providing a continuous visual interest.
- The 'Heckenfee' is characterized by a moderate growth rate of 20-30 cm annually, allowing it to quickly establish itself without becoming unmanageable.
- It is winter-hardy to USDA zone 6a, ensuring survival in temperatures as low as -20.6°C to -23.3°C.
- While the plant itself is moderately obscuring, its dense foliage offers a fair amount of privacy and is perfect for creating structured garden spaces.
- Its adaptability to a variety of soil types and tolerance to different light conditions, from full sun to shade, make it an easy addition to any landscape.
- The white flowers in April and May add a subtle charm, followed by the eye-catching red berries that attract birds and other wildlife.
Tips
- To encourage a full and healthy shape, prune the Ilex 'Heckenfee' once a year, ideally in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- While 'Heckenfee' does not demand frequent pruning, any shaping should be done with care to maintain the plant's natural form.
- For propagation, take semi-ripe or hardwood cuttings and plant them in well-fertilized soil to ensure successful growth.
- Ensure that the plant is well-watered, especially during dry periods, as it is not drought-resistant.
- When planting as a hedge, space the plants appropriately to allow for their growth rate and eventual width, ensuring a lush and full appearance.