Inkberry plant named ‘Gold Mine’

Abstract

A new variety of Ilex glabra plant is provided that is well suited for growing as attractive ornamentation in the landscape. The new variety is believed to be a spontaneous mutation of the ‘Shamrock’ variety (non-patented in the United States) of unknown causation. The foliage of the new variety is particularly distinctive and when exposed to full sun is dark glossy green with irregular bright golden yellow variegation at the margin. The growth habit is slow to moderate and the plant assumes a smaller overall size than the ‘Shamrock’ variety. Dioecious female flowers are formed. Good hardiness is displayed in U.S.D.A. Hardiness Zone No. 6a.

I claim:  
     
       1. A new and distinct  Ilex glabra  plant that displays the following combination of characteristics: 
       (a) when exposed to full sun the foliage is dark glossy green with irregular bright golden yellow variegation at the margin,  
       (b) exhibits a slow to moderate growth habit,  
       (c) forms dioecious female flowers,  
       (d) assumes a smaller overall size than the parent ‘Shamrock’ variety (non-patented in the United States), and  
       (e) displays good hardiness in U.S.D.A. Hardiness Zone No.  6a;    
       substantially as illustrated and described.