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Castle Spire®

Plant in sun or partial shade

96 - 120

Ilex x meserveae
Rating:
ColorChoice® Flowering Shrubs

Castle Spire®
Blue Holly
Ilex
x meserveae

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$16.95
Container Size: Quart

The Castle Ilex are new varieties of blue holly compact, pyramidal forms. Their dark glossy leaves, superior vigor and branching make them an improvement over other older varieties. Their narrow form makes them great for hedges, foundation plantings, or even as a dramatic specimen. The lustrous green foliage provides season long interest. CASTLE SPIRE™ will produce bright red berries for fall and winter enjoyment; use CASTLE WALL™ as the pollinator. Fruit is not edible.

Features

Compact pyramidal evergreen holly. Prune to shape after flowering (leave flowers for fall berries.) Excellent specimen plant. Red winter berries. Use Castle Wall as pollinator.
• Attracts Birds
• Deadheading Not Necessary
• Fall Interest
• Landscape Plant
• Low Maintenance
• Winter Interest

Ornamental Characteristics

Foliage Color:
Dark Green
Garden Height:
96 - 120"; Tall
Spacing:
48 - 60"
Habit:
Upright
Container Plant Style:
Thriller - Used either in the back or middle of a container. Usually a taller item that adds height and drama to the container.

Plant Needs

Duration:
Shrub
Shrub Type:
Evergreen
Bloom Time:
Spring
Zones:
Hardy in zones 5 - 7
Hardy Temp:
-20°F (-29°C)
Exposure:
Plant in sun or partial shade
Water Needs:
Normal to Wet
Maintenance:
Easy
Uses:
Landscapes
Great as a foundation plant, specimen or hedge, can be used as a replacement for pyramidal yews. Good in groupings and mass plantings, perennial and shrub borders, can be used as a screen or hedge. An outstanding plant for the winter landscape.

Patent Information

Castle Spire® Ilex x meserveae 'Hachfee' USPP14,310, Can. 2314

Growing Tips

According to the Humane Society of America Ilex berries can be toxic to pets. This is means that the plants are generally identified as having the capability for producing a toxic reaction.

Adaptable to wet soils, does well in light and heavy soils. Prune to shape immediately after flowering. Blooms on old wood. Likes high moisture, native to swampy and boggy areas. Fertilize in early spring by applying a slow release fertilizer specialized for trees and shrubs. Follow the label for recommended rates of application. Protect from winter wind and sun in cold (Zone 5) climates. Must be planted near a pollinator like Castle Wall in order to produce berries. Protect from harsh winter winds and sun.

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Rating Scale
1 - Unsatisfied Did not survive, inferior performance or did not bloom well - won't grow again.
2 - Marginally Adequate Performed below expectations but may be willing to try again.
3 - Satisfactory Average performance, met expectations but not outstanding.
4 - Above Average Superior performance, among my favorites, would recommend to others.
5 - Outstanding My favorite plant, I recommend to others all the time and explain the reasons why I like it so much.
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