Ilex aquifolium 'ALASKA CREAM' holly

Alaska Cream is another holly with coloured foliage. It was found as a natural mutation of Yellow Star variety in German town Wiesmoor in 1992. The leaves are deep green in the centre and have rich creamy yellow, sharply toothed margins. Some leaves are entirely yellow. Young branches are burgundy red. This is a female variety which produces bright red berries in winter if a male pollinator (e.g. Myrtifolia, Blue Prince®, Casanova®)
is nearby.

Variegated hollies are versatile in use. They can stand alone as attractive medium-sized specimen shrubs, or they can be a part of a large mixed border or landscape combined with other evergreen plans such as conifers, rhododendrons or cherry laurels. Once established it grows medium fast or fast and can easily be pruned so you can soon model a desired shape. Pruning in April will encourage new growths, trimming by end July is ideal for shaping.

Grow hollies in moist but well-drained, light and fertile soil. They can take periods of drought once established. Hollies do best in full sun but can also grow in shade. This variety proved very hardy even in full sun in winter. However, if you live in a region with cold winters and long-lasting frost we recommend growing it in position sheltered from drying winds, and preferably shaded from winter sun. Before and during winter when the soil is not frozen provide good watering. Hardy to -24°C (USDA zone 6), it withstands occasional swings a little lower.

Last update 07-01-2010