Holly (Ilex 'Magland' OAKLAND)
Ilex 'Magland' OAKLAND, a striking Broadleaf evergreen Holly, offers dense pyramidal growth and distinctive oak-shaped leaves ideal for screening.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND, commonly referred to as Holly, is a robust broadleaf evergreen highly valued for its dense, pyramidal form, making it an excellent structural element in the landscape. Discovered in 1994, this cultivar is known for its distinctive, oak leaf-shaped foliage, which features prominent spines along the margins. Gardeners seek out this Holly variety for its reliable winter interest, provided by persistent orange-red fruit following spring bloom.
This evergreen shrub readily adapts to various conditions, thriving from USDA Zone 6 through Zone 9. It matures into a substantial specimen, typically reaching heights between 12 to 20 feet with a spread ranging from 8 to 15 feet, offering significant visual screening potential. Its reliability and attractive year-round screen make the Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND a workhorse in formal and informal settings alike.
The flowering period occurs from March to May, producing small, slightly fragrant white to creamy yellow blossoms. While the flowers are modest, they are perfect, featuring both male and female parts, allowing for self-fertilization and pollination. This ease of pollination is followed by the development of highly showy fruit, solidifying the ornamental value of Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND through the colder months.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Aquifoliaceae
- Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-9
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 12-20 ft
- Spread: 8-15 ft
- Bloom Time: March to May
- Bloom Description: White
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Planting Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND is achievable when providing average, moist, slightly acidic, and well-drained soil conditions. The best planting time is typically spring or fall, allowing the roots to establish before extreme temperatures hit. While it performs well in full sun, gardeners in hotter climates should ensure the plant receives some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch, especially during the peak of summer heat.
Consistent, medium moisture is crucial for this Holly, particularly during the first few seasons after planting. Once established, it requires moderate watering, but avoid soggy bottoms, as this can lead to root issues. Fertility needs are typical for acidic-loving evergreens; minimal fertilization is usually required unless soil tests indicate severe nutrient deficiencies.
For northern growers in the colder end of its range (Zone 6), site the Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND where it is protected from harsh winter winds to minimize potential leaf drop or desiccation. Pruning is generally light; focus on removing dead or damaged wood, or shaping the upright, pyramidal form for use as a screen or hedge. Avoid heavy spring shearing, which can interfere with spring blooming.
Landscape Uses
The dense habit and upright pyramidal growth of Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND make it an exceptional choice for creating formal borders or robust privacy screens. Planted in succession, these Hollies form an impenetrable green barrier that retains its density year-round, far surpassing many deciduous alternatives. Its mature height suits mid-to-large-scale properties requiring significant visual blocking.
Beyond screening, mature plants function beautifully as substantial foundation placements, adding structure near buildings where a tall evergreeen is desired. They also serve well as strong vertical accents within mixed shrub borders, offering winter texture against deciduous plantings. Consider pairing the dark green foliage of this Holly with plants that offer contrasting textures or lighter spring colors, such as Japanese Maples or light-flowering Viburnums.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Insignificant
Fruit Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Ilex is a genus of over 400 species of evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs and climbers from tropical, subtropical and temperate regions, with many grown for their attractive foliage. The genus name derives from the Latin Quercus ilex (holm oak) due to leaf similarities. ‘Magland’, or OAKLAND, was found as a branch sport in 1994 and features dense, pyramidal growth with distinctive oak-shaped leaves bearing 3 to 5 pairs of spines. Small, creamy white flowers bloom in spring, leading to attractive orange-red fruit persisting into winter, with the plant maturing up to 20 feet tall.
Tolerances
Potential Problems
The Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND may encounter several pest and disease issues common to the Holly genus. Potential insect problems include annoying pests like holly leaf miner, spider mites, whitefly, and scale infestations, requiring monitoring, especially in warmer weather. Diseases to watch for are typically fungal, such as leaf spot, leaf rot, tar spot, and powdery mildew.
Cultural stress often manifests visibly in the foliage. Plants are susceptible to general leaf drop when stressed, leaf scorch if sited in too much intense afternoon sun without adequate water, and chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) if planted in non-acidic or high pH soils. Ensuring excellent drainage and the correct soil pH is the best preventative measure against many of these potential problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Holly suitable for?
This specific cultivar, Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND, is generally hardy and suitable for planting in USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9.
How large does Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND grow?
When fully mature, this dense evergreen shrub typically reaches a height between 12 and 20 feet tall, with a corresponding spread of 8 to 15 feet wide.
What sun exposure does Holly need?
For optimal health and density, Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND prefers full sun exposure but tolerates, and may appreciate, part shade, particularly afternoon shade in very hot summer regions.
When does Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND bloom?
This variety blooms relatively early, typically producing small white flowers from March through May, followed later in the season by its characteristic showy fruit.
Conclusion
The Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND stands out as a superior broadleaf evergreen, offering dense screening, distinctive foliage, and vibrant winter fruit display. By providing moist, slightly acidic soil and appropriate shelter from extreme winds, gardeners can successfully cultivate this robust Holly. Consult your local zone map to strategically place this beautiful Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND next season for year-round landscape structure.
Design Ideas
When integrating Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND into formal landscape designs, treat it as a cornerstone planting that directs evergreen flow. Utilize its strong pyramidal shape to frame entries or define property corners where a medium-to-large evergreen specimen is required. Because it tolerates pruning well, geometric shearing can enhance its formal appeal, contrasting nicely against softer, mounding perennials closer to the ground plane.
For a more naturalistic screen, allow the OAKLAND Holly to grow into its natural form, leveraging its 15-foot spread to create a dense, layered buffer. Groupings of three or five plants create a substantial visual mass that anchors the winter garden. Pairing it with broadleaf evergreens that have different leaf shapes, such as certain Rhododendrons or large Boxwoods, adds texture without clashing, as the foliage contrast remains subtle yet effective.
Companion Planting
The cultural needs of Ilex ‘Magland’ OAKLAND—moist, acidic, well-drained soil, and partial shade tolerance—dictate smart companion choices. Plants that thrive in similar slightly acidic environments pair naturally, such as Azaleas and Camellias, which offer complementary spring flowers against the evergreen backdrop of the Holly. Ensure these companions do not aggressively shade the base of the Holly, as it benefits from good air circulation around its root zone.
For textural contrast against the spiky, oak-like leaves, consider low-growing ferns or groundcovers that prefer similar dappled light conditions. Hosta cultivars, particularly those with chartreuse or blue foliage, provide excellent color variation at the lower level without competing strongly for vertical space. This thoughtful grouping ensures all plants benefit from the same targeted soil amendments necessary for optimal Holly health.
