Highclere Holly Ilex × altaclerensis 'Hodginsii' (m)

Water

The Highclere Holly should be consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plant deeply rather than superficially, ensuring the water reaches the root level. Watering should be done when the top inch of soil feels dry, which could be about once a week for outdoor plants, but indoor plants may need to be checked more frequently, as indoor conditions can vary. The amount of water required can range from one to two gallons per week, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to provide good drainage and not let the plant sit in excess water.

Light

Highclere Holly thrives in a variety of light conditions but prefers partial to full sun. Ideally, the plant should receive at least four hours of direct sunlight daily, but it is tolerant of light shade. A spot that offers morning sunlight with some afternoon shade can be ideal to protect the plant from the harsh late-day sun in hotter climates.

Temperature

Highclere Holly is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but prefers a moderate climate. It can typically withstand temperatures as low as 10°F and as high as 90°F, but its ideal temperature lies between 50°F and 75°F. This plant is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9, ensuring that it can endure the winter cold while not being exposed to extreme heat.

Pruning

Highclere Holly should be pruned to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. It can be pruned again in mid-summer if needed for shape. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and thin out the plant to increase air circulation, which helps prevent disease. Avoid heavy pruning late in the season, as this can stimulate new growth that may not harden off before winter.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Highcliffe Holly prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. The best soil mix can be prepared by combining equal parts of garden soil, compost, and perlite to ensure good drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Highcliffe Holly, being a slow-growing plant, does not require frequent repotting. It is generally recommended to repot this variety every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and allow for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Highcliffe Holly tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but thrives best in moderate humidity consistent with outdoor environments, approximately 40-60%.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light, moderate humidity, and cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial to full sun, shelter from strong winds, mulch roots.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

Ilex × altaclerensis 'Hodginsii', commonly known as Highclere holly, begins its life as a seed, which under the right conditions, will germinate and sprout into a seedling. The seedling stage is characterized by the development of the root system and the first sets of true leaves, which enable the plant to photosynthesize and grow. As the Highclere holly matures, it enters the juvenile phase, where it grows rapidly and starts to form its characteristic dense, evergreen foliage, but has not yet reached reproductive maturity. Upon maturity, the plant begins to flower, producing small white blooms that are followed by red berries, which are often only produced in significant numbers if a compatible pollinator is present, as 'Hodginsii' is a male cultivar. The mature Highclere holly can then establish itself as a fixture in the landscape for many years, growing slowly and continuing to flower and, if pollinated, possibly produce berries annually. Keep in mind that 'Hodginsii', being male, does not bear fruit itself; it primarily serves as a pollinator for female hollies. Over time, the plant may become woody and tree-like, and with proper care, can live for several decades.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Ilex × altaclerensis 'Hodginsii' (m), commonly known as Highclere Holly, is typically propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is from late summer to early fall when the current season's growth has started to mature and harden slightly. To propagate, a gardener should select healthy stems that are not flowering and cut a length of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), ensuring there are at least two to three sets of leaves. The bottom set of leaves is removed to expose the nodes where roots will form. The cut end can be dipped into rooting hormone for better results before the cutting is planted in a mix of peat and perlite or sand. The cutting should be kept in bright, indirect light and high humidity, with consistently moist but not soggy soil, until roots have developed, which can take several weeks. Once rooted, the cutting can be transferred to a pot with standard potting mix and grown on until ready to be planted out.