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topal holly

Scientific Name: Ilex ×attenuata

Family: Aquifoliaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Topal Holly (Ilex x attenuata)

Topal holly, scientifically known as Ilex x attenuata, is an attractive hybrid that occurs naturally. It is a cross between Ilex cassine (dahoon holly) and Ilex opaca (American holly).

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions the presence of berries that persist through the winter.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions the presence of berries that persist through the winter.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Ilex x attenuata Ashe
  • Common Name: Topal Holly (also sometimes "Topel Holly")
  • Family: Aquifoliaceae (Holly family)
  • Rank: Hybrid
  • Parentage: Ilex cassine x Ilex opaca
  • Varieties:
    • Ilex x attenuata 'Annie Armstrong'
    • Ilex x attenuata 'Savannah'
    • Ilex x attenuata 'Fosteri'
    • Ilex x attenuata 'Longwood Gold'

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the Southeastern United States.
  • Hardiness Zones: Typically Zones 6 to 9.
  • Prefers acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soil.
  • Benefits from some wind protection.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Type: Tree or Shrub.
  • Duration: Perennial (lives for many years).
  • Growth Rate: Slow-growing.
  • Mature Height: Typically reaches 10 to 20 feet (can reach 19 ft).
  • Spread: 72 to 120 inches.
  • Foliage: Evergreen with green leaves; some varieties, like 'Longwood Gold', have golden yellow leaves.
  • Fruit: Pea-sized red berries that persist through winter. Some varieties such as Longwood have Yellow berries.
  • Light: Prefers partial shade or partial sun to full sun.
  • Fall Color: Not showy.

Ecology

  • Mentioned as being found with striped mealybugs (Ferrisia virgata).
  • Naturally occurring hybrid.

Uses

  • Wood can be used for handles.
  • Specimens for landscape applications.

Quirky Facts

  • The variety 'Longwood Gold' was received by Longwood Gardens in the early 1970s as an open-pollinated seedling from Morris Arboretum in Philadelphia.

Further Information

  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
  • Dave's Garden
  • Virginia Nursery Association
  • Leafsnap (electronic field guide for trees)
  • Discover Life