Ilex crenata 'Drops of Gold' - Drops of Gold Japanese Holly

Drops of Gold Japanese Holly is an upward spreading evergreen shrub with irregular variegation depending on the sun.  Where it is exposed to full sun they mature to gold splashed with yellow and softer yellow to green in the inner plant or where in shade.  If pollinated, the inconspicuous flowers in spring to give way to small black fruits in fall which last through winter.  Best planted in moist, slightly acidic well-drained soils.  Hollies are dioecious and need both male and female plants to produce fruit.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low Maintenance.  Water regularly.   Well-drained soils essential.   Potential issues include mites, scale, leaf spot, rot, and mildew.  Susceptible to leaf scorch or drop if not protected from afternoon sun in hotter climates.

LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Wildlife Gardens, Foundation Plantings, Hedges, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: Azalea, Astilbe, Barberry

Image: Photo by Megan Hansen, Ilex crenata 'Drops of Gold'