Contents
Description
Cliffortia Ilicifolia, also known as the Holly-leaf Cliffortia or Baviaanskloof Cliffortia, is a species of flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is commonly found in the Baviaanskloof Mountains. The plant is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a dense and rounded crown. It produces small and fragrant white flowers that bloom from late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cliffortia |
Appearance
Cliffortia Ilicifolia has small, glossy, and leathery leaves that are dark green and have a spiny edge, similar to holly leaves. The leaves are alternate and measure about 2-6 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The plant produces small white flowers that are fragrant and bloom from late winter to early spring. The fruit is a small, hairy, and dark red achene that contains a single seed.
Care Guide
Water
Cliffortia Ilicifolia prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Cliffortia Ilicifolia prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Use a mixture of compost and sand to improve drainage.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Cliffortia Ilicifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. It can also be attacked by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. To prevent these problems, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area, avoid overwatering, and remove any infected leaves or branches.
Habitat
Cliffortia Ilicifolia is native to the Baviaanskloof Mountains in South Africa, where it grows in rocky places, on slopes, and in scrubland. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cliffortia Ilicifolia a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Cliffortia Ilicifolia can tolerate drought and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Cliffortia Ilicifolia?
A: The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. It can also be attacked by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs.
Q: What is the best way to care for Cliffortia Ilicifolia?
A: Cliffortia Ilicifolia prefers well-drained soil, moderate watering, and full sun to partial shade. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: When does Cliffortia Ilicifolia bloom?
A: The plant produces small and fragrant white flowers that bloom from late winter to early spring.
Related Plants
- Cliffortia Arborea
- Cliffortia Ferruginea
- Cliffortia Ruscifolia
- Cliffortia Ventricosa
References
- “Cliffortia Ilicifolia.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed 12 October 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/cliffilicif.htm
- “Cliffortia Ilicifolia.” San Marcos Growers. Accessed 12 October 2021. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3762
- “Cliffortia Ilicifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 October 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282084&isprofile=0&basic=cliffortia
