Ilex × aquipernyi 'Meschick' DRAGON LADY- #7-3/4'
Culture
Easily grown in acidic, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best fruit production occurs in full sun, but plants generally appreciate some part afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Foliage tends to open up as the amount of shade increases. Avoid poorly drained soils. Mulch will help retain soil moisture and deter weed growth. Prune in winter if needed. Hollies are dioecious (separate male and female plants). In order to set fruit, female plants need a nearby male pollinator.
DRAGON LADY is a female cultivar. I. ‘Blue Stallion’ and I. ‘Blue Prince’ are reportedly good pollinators. DRAGON LADY is winter hardy to USDA Zone 6. In the St. Louis area, it should be sited in protected locations.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Ilex × aquipernyi is a cross between I. aquifolium (English holly) and I. pernyi (perny holly).