Elex Menesbea 'Castle Spire'

Ilex × meserveae 'Castle Spire'

Ilex × meserveae 'Castle Spire' is an evergreen shrub with beautiful red berries and dense foliage. This variety adds a unique charm to the garden by remaining deciduous and retaining its green leaves throughout the winter.

Growth Characteristics:
- Size: It typically grows to a height of 2–3 meters, with a narrow, conical crown.
- Leaves: They are green, glossy, and have serrated edges.
- Fruit: Female trees bear red berries, which are very impressive during the winter. A male variety of the same species is required nearby to produce fruit.

Propagation Methods:
- It is primarily propagated by cuttings or grafting.
- Cuttings are taken from late spring to early summer, utilizing new shoots grown from healthy trees.

Cultivation Methods:
- Sunlight: It prefers partial shade to full sun. However, it is best to avoid excessively strong sunlight. - Soil: Prefers well-drained, acidic to slightly acidic soil.
- Watering: Requires consistent moisture supply; care must be taken to prevent the soil from becoming too dry.

Uses in the Garden:
- Often used for boundary planting or hedges.
- Serves as a focal point to highlight seasonal changes and harmonizes well with other plants.

Important Pests and Control Methods:
- Pests and Diseases: Spider mites and leaf spot may occur.
- Control: Maintain a suitable environment to promote healthy growth, and use appropriate insecticides or fungicides if disease occurs. Regular pruning and ventilation can help reduce the occurrence of diseases.

While this variety is attractive in itself, it can grow even more beautifully when supported by the right environment and care.

Plant Family	Holly family
Height	1.8~3m
Spread	90~120cm
Colors	red
Bloom Period	March to August
Water Needs	commonly
Exposure	Sunny
Freezing Resistance	-23°C

Elex Menesbea Castle Wall
Ilex × meserveae Castle Wall

Elex Menesbea 'Blue Princess'
Ilex × meserveae 'Blue Princess'