Plant Profile: Ilex vomitoria 'Taylor's Rudolph'

Taylor's Rudolph Yaupon Holly is a robust, multi-stemmed evergreen shrub that boasts a rounded shape, extending all the way to the ground. This compact dwarf variety features a delicate texture, abundant red berries in the fall, and glossy dark green foliage throughout the year. As a female cultivar, it requires a nearby male counterpart of the same species, such as ‘Schilling’s Dwarf’, Possomhaw, or American Holly, to produce fruit.

This shrub is versatile, thriving in various soil types and demonstrating drought resistance once established, while also tolerating brief periods of wetness. It flourishes best in full sun to partial shade and is salt tolerant, although it struggles in areas with urban pollution, like parking lots. Its growth rate is slow to moderate.

While the spring flowers lack ornamental appeal, they do attract pollinators. In the fall and winter, the berries become a food source for birds.

Rudolph Yaupon Holly can serve multiple purposes, including as a formal hedge, a standalone specimen, or a foundation plant. It is also suitable for container gardening. If necessary, pruning should be done in the winter.

For further details on Ilex vomitoria, please refer to additional resources.