Topal Holly Ilex x attenuata

Topel holly is a naturally occurring hybrid of I. cassine (dahoon) and I. opaca (American holly). It was initially found growing wild in Florida in the 1920s but is now found throughout the southeastern United States where both parents are native. Subsequently, hybrids have been made artificially. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree and a member of the holly family (Aquifoliaceae). The hybrid epithet means “abruptly tapering to a point” and describes both the leaf base and the leaf tip.

Topel holly grows best in acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Although the best fruit production occurs in full sun, these plants do well with some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. You should site the plant where it can be protected from cold winter winds and the soil is well drained. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and deter weed growth. Prune in winter to maintain a desired size, although keep in mind that the plant flowers on new growth. Plants are dioecious (separate male and female plants), and to set fruit, female plants will need a nearby male pollinizer. Plants can suffer from the cold in USDA Zone 5 and below.

Topel holly has a conical form and, unless pruned, matures to 12 to 25 feet tall or more. The Topel holly has generated several cultivars, many of which have different common names (for example, the I. × attenuata 'Fosteri' cultivar is commonly called the Foster holly). The hybrid cultivars grow in a variety of forms and habits but generally share the following traits: spiny, elliptic to obovate-lanceolate evergreen leaves (to 3 inches long) with attenuated bases and showy, pea-sized, red fruits that persist over winter. The fruits provide an ornamental winter interest and attract birds.

Disease, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: Insect problems include holly leafminer, spittlebugs, spider mites, whitefly and scale. Susceptible to leaf spot, leaf rot, tar spot and powdery mildew, leaf drop, leaf scorch and chlorosis (yellowing of leaves in high pH soils).

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on  common diseases and insect pests.

More information on Ilex.