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Drops Of Gold Japanese Holly

Ilex crenata 'Drops of Gold'

  • Golden-Tipped Foliage Creates Year-Round Two-Tone Shimmer on this Touch of Gold Holly
  • Thrives in Zones 5-9
  • Grows 3-4 ft Tall, 4-6 ft Wide
  • Deer Resistant, Disease Resistant, Drought Tolerant
  • Showy White Blooms From Early Spring to Late Spring
Regular price $8459
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Plant Size

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Evergreen, Compact/Dwarf, Deer-resistant, Hedge/Screen, Low Maintenance, Container Friendly
Hardiness Zone 5a to 8b
Sunlight Full sun
Height 3-4 ft
Width 4-6 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate Moderate
Growth Habit Bushy, Spreading
Blooms In Spring
Flower Color White
Foliage Color Yellow, Green
Pet Safety Toxic to pets
Suitable Space Outdoors, Indoors
Plant Name Holly
Botanical Name Ilex crenata 'Drops of Gold'
Species crenata
Cultivar Drops of Gold
Class Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones can Drops of Gold Japanese Holly survive in?

  • Drops of Gold Japanese Holly thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6 through 8. These broadleaf evergreens handle winter temperatures well while maintaining their golden variegated foliage year-round. Plant in fall or early spring for best establishment in your climate zone.

How tall and wide does Drops of Gold Japanese Holly get when fully mature?

  • Drops of Gold Japanese Holly reaches 3-4 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide at maturity. This compact, slow-growing evergreen maintains a neat, tidy form in zones 6-8. Plan spacing accordingly for hedging or foundation plantings available at naturehills.com.

How often should I water my newly planted Drops of Gold Japanese Holly?

  • Water newly planted Drops of Gold Japanese Holly deeply once or twice weekly for the first growing season. These low-maintenance evergreens need consistent moisture to establish their root system in zones 6-8. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 2 inches deep and water when dry.

Is Drops of Gold Japanese Holly a fast-growing or slow-growing plant?

  • Drops of Gold Japanese Holly is a slow-growing shrub that reaches 3-4 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide at maturity. This compact growth habit makes it perfect for low-maintenance hedging and foundation plantings in zones 6-8. Plan spacing accordingly since it won't quickly fill gaps like faster-growing alternatives.

Will deer eat Drops of Gold Japanese Holly or is it deer resistant?

  • Japanese Holly is generally deer resistant due to its dense, glossy evergreen foliage that deer typically avoid. The small, tough leaves and compact 3-4 foot growth habit make Drops of Gold an excellent choice for areas with deer pressure. Plant it confidently as hedging or foundation plantings available at naturehills.com.

Does this holly produce berries and are they toxic to pets or children?

  • Female plants produce small black berries in fall when a male Japanese Holly is nearby for pollination. Holly berries are mildly toxic to pets and children if consumed in quantity. Keep an eye on curious kids and pets around fruiting plants.

How much fertilizer does Drops of Gold Japanese Holly need throughout the year?

  • Drops of Gold Japanese Holly requires minimal fertilization due to its low-maintenance nature. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied once in early spring is typically sufficient for healthy growth in zones 6-8. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce the brilliant golden variegation that makes this cultivar special.

Does Drops of Gold Japanese Holly need pruning and when is the best time to trim it?

  • Japanese Holly rarely needs pruning due to its naturally compact, slow-growing habit. If shaping is desired, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Light trimming maintains the 3-4 foot height and preserves the brilliant golden foliage display.