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Foster's No. 2 HollyIlex x attenuata ‘Fosteri’
An excellent evergreen for use as a hedge, accent tree or screen. Glossy, dark green leaves with white spring flowers and deep red berries in the fall. Foster's Holly #2 is one of the few female hollies that does not require a male pollinator for fruit development.
Hardiness Zones
The foster's no. 2 holly can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 6–9. View Map
Tree Type
Mature Size
Foster’s No. 2 holly grows to a height of 15–25' and a spread of 8–12' at maturity.
Growth Rate
This tree grows at a slow to medium rate, with height increases of anywhere from less than 12" to 24" per year.
Sun Preference
Full sun and partial shade are best for this tree, meaning it prefers a minimum of four hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.
Soil Preference
Foster’s No. 2 holly grows in acidic, alkaline, loamy, moist, sandy, silty loam, well-drained and clay soils.
Attributes
This tree:
- Produces small white flowers in the spring.
- Grows in a pyramidal shape.
- Works well as a hedge, screen or accent tree.
- Features simple, glossy dark green leaves that are 1½–3" long and have spiny margins.
- Yields deep red, berry-like fruit that persists through winter.
- Is parthenocarpic, meaning it is a female tree that can produce fruit without fertilization from a male pollinator.
Wildlife Value
Birds are attracted by the tree’s berries.
History/Lore
Foster's No. 2 holly is a hybrid of Ilex cassine and Ilex opaca.