Horstmann Mini Holly - Ilex x meserveae

Quite possibly the cutest holly EVER. Commonly called 'Blue Hollies,' the Horstmann Mini Holly is a slow-growing little tree which makes it perfect for miniature gardening. But, look a little closer at close-up photos of those twisty, contorted leaves with the tiny holly-spines that shine along the branches - the texture is just awesome. It'll produce tiny white flowers in the summer if it's happy. Make sure you have the proper climate for it: **Add an extra handful of vermiculite or perlite to your potting soil if growing this in a container. It requires well-drained, acidic soil (regular potting soil is usually slightly acidic already) which means it doesn't like a lot of moisture around its roots - but don't let the soil dry out completely. It has a shallow root base so you can use mulch, just keep it away from the plant's little trunk to prevent rot. **Cold hardy to Zone 5 or -20F (-29C) - they are apparently bred to tolerate harsh, winters but struggle in the prolonged summer heat. **NOT that heat hardy - Heat zone 8 or lower - Rare. Limit 2 per customer. Textured leaves are to scale Grows 2" to 4" per year Produces tiny white flowers in the summer Followed by green berries Can be pruned lightly to keep its shape Growth rate: Less than 1"/yr Zones 5 - 9 or hardy to -20F Shelter from winter winds Heat zones 8 - 7 Full (cool) sun to part shade Regular water - it has a shallow root base, check soil often Fertilize after 2 years if planted in a container Pot shown is 4” wide An outdoor plant ~~~ From Robert in Washington State: Thanks for your careful shipping and packing. Look forward to doing more with your company.