Perry's weeping silver Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata Pendula' (f/v)

Water

The Silver Margin Holly, as Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata Pendula' is commonly known, should be watered deeply to ensure the root system is thoroughly moistened, achieving this by applying water slowly at the plant's base. It's important to avoid frequent shallow watering, instead aiming for about 1 to 2 gallons for smaller plants and up to 4 gallons for larger plants every week during the growing season, less in winter. Adjust the frequency based on weather conditions, watering more frequently during dry spells and less during periods of rain. Ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering, so always check soil moisture before adding water.

Light

Silver Margin Holly thrives in partial to full sunlight and can do well in varied lighting conditions. It's best to provide a spot where the plant can receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some protection from the harsh afternoon sun. Dappled sunlight or a place with morning sun and afternoon shade would be ideal to protect the variegated leaves from scorching.

Temperature

Silver Margin Holly is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, but it typically prefers cooler climates. It can survive in temperatures as low as -10°F and as high as 100°F, yet the ideal temperature range is between 30°F and 70°F. Protecting it from extreme cold winds and providing some shelter when temperatures dip below freezing can help maintain the health of the plant.

Pruning

Pruning Silver Margin Holly is vital for maintaining its shape and promoting vigorous growth. It's best pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, though trimming may be done in summer to shape or remove any damaged or diseased branches. Prune sparingly, as heavy pruning can diminish berry production, and always use clean, sharp tools to ensure clean cuts.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Silver Margin Weeping Holly (Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata Pendula') thrives in a soil mix that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and slightly acidic to neutral. An ideal soil mix can be created using two parts garden loam, one part well-decomposed compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Silver Margin Weeping Holly should be repotted infrequently, only when it has outgrown its current pot or the soil has become compacted. This is typically every 2 to 3 years. It's important to use a container only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent root rot.

Humidity & Misting

Silver Margin Weeping Holly prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to the average humidity found in most homes. It is important to ensure that the plant is not placed in an excessively dry environment as it can lead to stress and leaf drop.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light and keep soil moderately moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part-shade, shelter from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata Pendula', commonly known as the Variegated Silver Holly, begins its life cycle when the seeds, often spread by birds who eat the berries, germinate and sprout in the spring after experiencing a period of winter dormancy to break seed dormancy. The seedling stage follows, where the young plant establishes itself and begins to develop its characteristic spiny leaves. During the vegetative stage, the holly grows and matures, slowly developing its arching pendulous branches and variegated leaves edged with creamy-white margins. As it enters the reproductive stage, which can take several years, the Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata Pendula' produces small white flowers that are followed by red berries if pollinated by a nearby male holly plant. After reaching full maturity, the holly can live for many decades, during which it goes through annual cycles of growth and dormancy, maintaining its evergreen foliage throughout the seasons. The holly eventually enters a senescence phase toward the end of its life cycle, where growth slows and the plant may become more susceptible to environmental stressors and diseases before it dies.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring

• Ilex aquifolium 'Argentea Marginata Pendula', commonly known as Silver-margined Weeping English Holly, is typically propagated in late winter to early spring. The most popular method of propagation for this variety is through semi-hardwood cuttings. A gardener would take cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long from the current year's growth. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in a rooting hormone to facilitate root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite to provide good drainage and aeration. The pot must be kept in a warm, humid environment, out of direct sunlight, to encourage rooting. Rooting typically takes place within 6 to 8 weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to outside conditions and eventually planted out in its permanent location.