Contents
Description
Ilex Buergeri, also known as Buerger’s Holly, is a small evergreen tree native to Japan. It belongs to the family Aquifoliaceae and is commonly grown for its ornamental value. The plant is slow-growing and can reach a height of up to 15 feet. It has a dense, pyramidal crown and dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped with a pointed tip. The tree produces small, white flowers in the spring, followed by red berries in the fall. The berries are a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
The Ilex Buergeri has a unique and attractive appearance, making it a popular choice for landscaping. The tree has a symmetrical, pyramidal shape and can grow up to 15 feet tall. Its dark green, glossy leaves are oval-shaped with a pointed tip and measure about 2-4 inches long. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a smooth edge. The tree produces small, white flowers in the spring, followed by bright red berries in the fall. The berries are about 1/4 inch in diameter and are a valuable food source for wildlife.
Care Guide
The Ilex Buergeri is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The Ilex Buergeri prefers slightly acidic soil. Add organic matter to the soil to improve its quality.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Ilex Buergeri is hardy in zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ilex Buergeri is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by the following:
- Scale: Scale insects can infest the tree, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Mites: Mites can cause discoloration and curling of the leaves. Treat with an appropriate insecticide.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Ilex Buergeri is native to Japan and is commonly found in forests and woodlands. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures. The tree is popular in landscaping and is often used as a hedge or a specimen plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Ilex Buergeri a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, the Ilex Buergeri is a popular choice for landscaping due to its attractive appearance and low-maintenance requirements.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Ilex Buergeri?
A: The Ilex Buergeri is hardy in zones 6-9.
Q: How often should I water my Ilex Buergeri?
A: Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Q: Can the Ilex Buergeri be affected by pests and diseases?
A: Yes, although the plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, it can still be affected by scale insects, mites, and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Ilex aquifolium (English Holly)
- Ilex opaca (American Holly)
- Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon Holly)
References
- “Ilex buergeri.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=250075&isprofile=0&basic=ilex%20buergeri.
- “Ilex buergeri.” Plant Finder. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3603/burgers-holly/.
