Inkberry 'Shamrock' (Ilex glabra 'Shamrock')

Inkberry 'Shamrock'

Also known as: Appalachian tea 'Shamrock', Evergreen winterberry 'Shamrock'

Originally cultivated from Ilex glabra, inkberry 'Shamrock' is a more compact and less leggy hybrid than its parent. It's a female plant that, without a male, can't produce the characteristic blue berries that make it so popular among gardeners and birds alike. The reason for its name is still ambiguous.

Scientific classification

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Winter, Spring

Harvest Time

1.2 m

Plant Height

1.2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Black

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Care Guide for Inkberry 'Shamrock'

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Inkberry 'Shamrock' prefers moist, acidic soils and benefits from consistent moisture, requiring weekly watering. It displays drought tolerance while thriving in humid environments, especially along wetland margins. Mulching is recommended to retain moisture and replicate natural understory conditions, making it suitable for outdoor growth.

Fertilize: Inkberry 'Shamrock' requires minimal fertilization; apply a thin layer in early spring and autumn. Use a nitrogen-rich compound for brighter leaves. Cease fertilization in temperatures over 30℃ (86°F) to avoid root damage. Insufficient or excessive fertilization can lead to weak growth and dull leaves.

Pruning: Inkberry 'Shamrock' is an evergreen shrub with dense, dark green foliage. Prune in early to late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches, focusing on thinning for better air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning in the growing season to preserve vigor. Consult reliable sources for detailed guidelines.

Propagation: Inkberry 'Shamrock' is a hardy evergreen shrub that propagates effectively through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. Ensure a well-draining soil mix and a humid, warm environment for rooting. Utilizing rooting hormone boosts success, and plants should be acclimated before outdoor transplanting.

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