Although Christmas may be over, hollies are still a beautiful part of the winter landscape. January's plant of the month is Ilex X attentuata 'Fosteri', Foster Holly.

Foster Holly is a cross between American Holly and Dahoon Holly. They are actually several "Foster" hollies. 'Foster #1- 5' were created by E.E. Foster in Alabama. 'Foster #2' is the most commonly sold Foster Holly in the Wilson area.

'Foster #2' has small, glossy green leaves with a spiny margin. They have a compact, pyramidal growth habit naturally reducing the need for extensive pruning. In the winter they are heavily fruited with bright red berries.

Foster Holly can be used for hedges and specimen plants. They grow to 20-30 feet in height and have a narrow conical shape. They are easily grown in Zones 6-9 and considered fast- growing. Wilson is Zone 7b.

Foster Holly is susceptible to spittlebugs as many hollies are.

They are many other cultivars of Ilex X attenuata. Some may have an alterative fruit color such as yellow. Others have a different growth habit. Other popular cultivars include 'East Palatka' which is looser and airier than 'Foster #2'. 'Hume #2 and #4' are lighter green than 'Foster #2'. 'Savannah' is extremely popular like 'Foster #2'. It has large florescent red fruit borne in great abundance. The leaves are larger and have more spines than 'Foster #2'.

Come out and see the Wilson Display Garden this winter. The garden will give you ideas on what to include in your garden to have an interesting winter landscape. Come join us for a pruning workshop on January 10, 12:00 noon at 1806 S. Goldsboro Street. Bring your hand pruners. To pre-register call 237-0113 and speak to Sue.

Date Created: 12/18/00.