The Colonade Holly (Emerald Colonnade® Holly) is a distinctive evergreen shrub with a narrow, upright growth habit. Its compact form and dense foliage make it a versatile choice for adding vertical interest or establishing boundaries. It provides year-round appeal, contributing consistent color and form.
Key Characteristics of Colonade Holly
The Colonade Holly is botanically identified as Ilex x ‘RutHol1’, showcasing a naturally columnar or pyramidal growth habit. It typically reaches a mature height of 10 to 12 feet with a spread of 6 to 8 feet, providing a substantial yet contained presence. The plant’s foliage consists of dense, glossy, dark green, oval leaves that remain vibrant throughout the year. Small, inconspicuous creamy white flowers appear during the spring season. Emerald Colonnade® Holly is a male cultivar, meaning it does not produce berries, making it suitable for those who prefer a berry-free landscape.
Planting and Site Requirements
Colonade Holly thrives in specific site conditions. This plant prefers locations that receive full sun to partial shade, ideally with at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and foliage color. In regions with intense summer heat, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the plant.
Well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH is preferred, although it can adapt to a range of soil types. Incorporating organic matter can enhance soil drainage and fertility, which is beneficial for root development. It is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 9.
When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than its height. Position the holly so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the root ball to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil. For hedges or groupings, space plants 4 to 6 feet apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Consistent watering is important for newly planted Colonade Hollies to establish a strong root system. During its first growing season, water the plant deeply and regularly. Once established, it tolerates mild drought but benefits from deep watering during dry periods or when the top two inches of soil feel dry.
Fertilize your Colonade Holly in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support healthy growth and maintain vibrant foliage. Avoid applying fertilizer in late fall, as this can stimulate new growth vulnerable to winter damage. Mulching around the base of the plant before the first frost can provide additional winter protection and help retain soil moisture.
Pruning is minimal, best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges, allowing for shaping and removal of dead or damaged branches. The plant tolerates shearing well, making it suitable for maintaining its characteristic narrow shape or for creating formal hedges. While generally low-maintenance regarding pests and diseases, good air circulation from occasional thinning can help prevent issues.
Landscaping Uses
Its distinctive columnar form makes Colonade Holly versatile for various landscape applications. It is frequently used for formal hedges, providing a neat, defined border. Its dense foliage also makes it an excellent option for year-round privacy screens. As an accent plant, it adds vertical interest to garden beds or serves as a focal point in narrow areas. It is suitable for foundation plantings, complementing architectural lines without overwhelming the space. Its tolerance to shearing also allows for topiary, shaping it into more formal designs.