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   Castle Spire   Ilex x meservae 'Heckfee' pp14310, cbraf

A beautiful new compact, pyramidal blue holly with large lustrous dark green leaves, bright red berries and superior branching. A great foundation plant, specimen or hedge plant that can be used as a replacement for Capatata Yew. Use CASTLE WALL as the pollinator. Hybrized by Holger Hachmann, the famous Rhododendorn breeder of Holstein Germany. 

This is a substantial improvement in blue holly because it has improved branching and shinier leaves.  

 

Share your experience: Rate how has this variety has preformed in your garden.

Hardiness:  USDA Zone 5

Bloom: not significant, small white female flowers in spring

Fruit:  Bright red fall and winter berries on CASTLE SPIRE.  Use CASTLE WALL as pollinator. 

Foliage:  Large, glossy dark green evergreen leaves                        

Size:  A pyramidal plant that reachs 8-10 feet in height and less than 4 feet in width

Exposure:  Full sun to partial shade. In colder climates it is best to plant broadleaf evergreens so that they are not exposed to winter sun or wind. The north and east side of a building would be ideal.

Soil: Adaptable to wet soils, does well in light & heavy Soils. First class pick for planting in saturated areas.  

Pruning: Shear lightly to build a nice pyramidal shape. Once established shear or purne sparingly because you will get less fruit.                                                                      

Watering: Moist but well drained.

Wildlife: Birds

Type: Evergreen

Fertilizing: Fertilize in early spring by applying a slow release fertilizer specialized for trees & shrubs. Follow the label for recommended rate of application.

Uses: Groupings or masses, perennial or shrub borders, specimen, screens or hedges, waterside and wet soils, winter gardens.

Other: Requires a male plant to create berries. Castle Wall is recommended to use with Castle Spire.

Breeder:  Holger Hachmann of Germany

These new varieties of blue holly are great foundation plants with compact, pyramidal forms.  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.

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