Drops of Gold Japanese Holly
Ilex crenata 'Drops Of Gold'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
42 inches
Width
54 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Long-lived evergreen shrub
Native To
Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan
Toxicity
Berries are mildly toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Ilex crenata, or Japanese Holly, is a versatile evergreen shrub with small, spineless leaves, often used as a boxwood substitute. It has a dense, multi-branched habit. 'Drops of Gold' is a striking cultivar featuring bright golden-yellow new growth that contrasts beautifully with the older, dark green interior foliage. It has a lovely mounding, spreading habit.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a site with full sun and acidic, moist, well-drained soil.
- Amend soil with compost or peat moss to improve acidity and drainage.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the plant's container.
- Set the plant in the hole, ensuring the root crown is slightly above soil level.
- Backfill with amended soil and water in well.
- Apply a layer of pine straw or bark mulch to retain moisture.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun to achieve the brightest gold foliage; in shadier spots, the new growth will be more chartreuse.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Maintain consistent moisture, especially during establishment.
- Test soil pH and amend if it is neutral or alkaline.
- Prune lightly after the spring growth flush to encourage density.
- Provide good air circulation to minimize disease risk.
Don't
- Do not plant in heavy, wet, or alkaline soils.
- Avoid letting the root ball dry out completely.
- Don't plant too deep, as this can lead to root rot.
- Avoid sites with reflected heat from pavement, which can scorch leaves.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Drops of Gold Japanese Holly questions
What zones can Drops of Gold Japanese Holly grow in?
Drops of Gold Japanese Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Drops of Gold Japanese Holly deer resistant?
Yes — Drops of Gold Japanese Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Drops of Gold Japanese Holly bloom?
Drops of Gold Japanese Holly typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Drops of Gold Japanese Holly need full sun?
Drops of Gold Japanese Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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Grow Drops of Gold Japanese Holly with confidence
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