Goshiki false holly is a type of evergreen shrub that is native to Japan. It is also known as the variegated holly. The goshiki false holly has broad, dark green leaves that are variegated with yellow, white, and cream-colored stripes. The plant can grow to be up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The goshiki false holly is an excellent plant for use as a hedge or in foundation plantings. It is also a popular choice for bonsai.
Related plant:
Osmanthus Heterophyllus Goshiki
About soil condition, Goshiki False Holly prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil, but it is quite tolerant of a wide range of soils and conditions. It is a good choice for sites that are both sunny and shady.
Just like other hollies, the goshiki false holly can tolerate full sun to partial sun. It prefers well-drained, acidic soil, but it is also tolerant of other soil types. This evergreen shrub can grow to be 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide, making it a good choice for hedges and privacy screens.
The temperature condition that is most ideal for the growth of goshiki false holly is one that is cool and humid. This plant does not tolerate heat very well, so a location that is shaded from the afternoon sun is best. Goshiki false holly will also do well in an indoor setting as long as the temperature is kept between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is in the range of 40-50%. If the humidity level is too low, the leaves will become dry and start to fall off the plant. If the humidity level is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will become stunted.
About fertilizer, this kind of plant doesn't require too much. A general-purpose fertilizer applied in early spring should be sufficient. As for the roots, they are relatively shallow and spread out, so be careful not to damage them when digging or transplanting.
Pruning goshiki false holly is important to maintain its shape and to prevent it from becoming overgrown. When pruning, trim back the stems that are growing out of bounds and cut back any stems that are crossing over each other. This will help to maintain the plant's natural shape and keep it looking its best.
Propagation of goshiki false holly is best done by rooting stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, vigorous shoots that are about 6 to 8 inches long. Cuttings can be rooting in a pot of moistened potting mix or directly in the ground. When rooting in a pot, be sure to use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly to keep the mix moist but not soggy. If you are rooting the cuttings in the ground, choose a location that has well-drained soil and is in partial to full shade. Water the soil well before planting and keep the soil moist until the cuttings are rooted and actively growing.
Usually, the plant growth rate is based on how much water and sunlight the plant gets. If the plant is getting too much water, it will start to yellow and wilt. If the plant is not getting enough water, the leaves will turn brown and fall off.
Common problems for this kind of plant are spot anthracnose, sooty mold, and scale. Spot anthracnose is caused by the fungus Gnomonia erythroxylon and appears as small, dark spots on the leaves. Sooty mold is a black fungus that grows on the honeydew secreted by scale insects. Scale insects are small, hard-bodied pests that suck the sap out of plants. They are often found on the undersides of leaves.
Source:
Holly | Home & Garden Information Center - Clemson University
Growing holly : University of Illinois Extension
ENH1302/EP566: Key Plant, Key Pests: Holly (Ilex sp.)
