Growing Information

Growing zone guide
Growing Zone Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7
Sunlight Bright light to partial shade
Type of Soil Slightly acidic to neutral
Mature Height 8 to 10 ft.
Maintenance Level Low maintenance
Water Requirement Moderate watering (once a week)

Learn more about this plant

Additional Information
Growth Rate

  • Speed: Slow to moderate growth rate.
  • Mature Growth: Reaches 4-6 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, forming a dense, upright shrub ideal for hedges, screens, or as a focal point in the garden.
Colorful Leaves No
Flowering No
Bloom Color N/A
Ornamental Berries N/A
Disease resistant Yes
Cold Tolerant Yes
Heat Tolerant No
Drought Tolerant No
Deer Resistant No
Edible No
Wildlife Attraction
  • Attracts: Birds may be attracted to the small cones for food and the dense foliage for shelter.
  • Wildlife Resistant: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits due to the toxic nature of the foliage.
Self-pollinating Self-pollinating
Seasonality
  • Foliage Season: Evergreen (retains foliage year-round).
  • Flowering Season: Produces inconspicuous flowers; primarily valued for foliage.
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7
Ideal For
  • Foundation plantings
  • Low hedges and borders
  • Rock gardens
  • Container gardens
  • Small landscape areas
Leaf Description
  • Color: Rich dark green.
  • Form: Soft, scale-like leaves arranged in flat sprays, giving a full and lush appearance.
  • Winter Interest: Retains vibrant green color throughout winter, providing year-round visual appeal.
Flower Description
  • Color: Inconspicuous; flowers are not ornamental.
  • Form: Small cones may develop but are not visually significant.
  • Bloom Time: Early spring; flowering is not a primary feature of this variety.
Pruning & Maintenance

  • Timing: Minimal pruning is required; can be lightly pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
  • Method: Remove any dead or damaged branches as needed. Light trimming can help maintain a compact form.
Water Needs

  • Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, 'Holmstrup' is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering during dry periods.
  • Soil Moisture: Prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions once established. Avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.
Light Needs

  • Thrives in full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended for optimal growth and color.
Harvesting N/A
Fertilizing

  • Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins.
  • Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Additional Care Tips
  • Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from temperature extremes.
  • Drought Tolerance: Once established, 'Holmstrup' is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes.
  • Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free and resistant to common diseases. Ensure good air circulation to prevent any fungal issues, especially in humid climates.
Pollination

  • Pollination Type: Coniferous plant with male and female cones; wind-pollinated. Pollination is not significant for ornamental value.
  • Fruit Production: May produce small cones, but these are not visually significant and serve primarily as a food source for birds.
Companion Plants
  • Hosta
  • Ferns
  • Rhododendron
  • Heuchera
Flowering and Seasonality
  • Foliage Season: Evergreen (retains foliage year-round).
  • Flowering Season: Produces inconspicuous flowers; primarily valued for foliage.
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7
  • Color: Inconspicuous; flowers are not ornamental.
  • Form: Small cones may develop but are not visually significant.
  • Bloom Time: Early spring; flowering is not a primary feature of this variety.
Pet Friendly

Yes

Growing Zone
  • Zone 3
  • Zone 4
  • Zone 5
  • Zone 6
  • Zone 7

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