Ilex crenata 'Little Rascal'
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Name | Ilex crenata 'Little Rascal' |
| Common Name | Little Rascal Holly |
| Plant Type | Evergreen shrub |
| Height | 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) |
| Spread | 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) |
| Foliage | Small, glossy, dark green leaves |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil | Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil |
| Watering | Regular, to keep the soil consistently moist |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Uses | Border, foundation planting, container gardens |
| Notable Feature | Compact size, dense growth, evergreen foliage |
Planting Aspects
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Site Selection: Little Rascal Holly is adaptable to various light conditions, from full sun to partial shade.
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Soil Preparation: Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
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Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the nursery container, ensuring that the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface.
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Spacing: Space plants about 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for their mature spread.
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the establishment period. Regular watering is essential to maintain soil moisture.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to help conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature.
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Maintenance: Little Rascal Holly is generally low-maintenance. Prune as needed to maintain the desired shape.
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Fertilizing: A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can support healthy growth.
Little Rascal Holly (Ilex crenata 'Little Rascal') is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its small, glossy, dark green leaves. Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent choice for borders, foundation plantings, or container gardens. The plant's compact size also makes it suitable for smaller garden spaces or for creating low hedges.