Contents
Description
Ilex Championii, also known as Champion’s Holly, is a species of evergreen shrub that belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family. It is native to China and can grow up to 6 meters tall. The plant has a slow growth rate and can live up to 100 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
Ilex Championii has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip. The leaves are about 5-10 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in early summer, followed by red berries that ripen in the fall. The berries are about 5 mm in diameter and are a favorite food source for birds.
Care Guide
To ensure the best growth and health of Ilex Championii, follow these care instructions:Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote new growth. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.Soil: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is too alkaline, add peat moss or compost to lower the pH.Sunlight: Ilex Championii prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in sparse growth.Hardiness Zones: Ilex Championii is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ilex Championii is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by the following:Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticide.Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes black spots on leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with fungicide.
Habitat
Ilex Championii is native to China and can be found growing in forests, mountains, and hillsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ilex Championii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.Q: How often should I prune Ilex Championii?
A: Prune it in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and shape the plant as desired.Q: Can Ilex Championii be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, it can be propagated from semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer.Q: Is Ilex Championii poisonous to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Ilex Championii:- Ilex aquifolium (English Holly)- Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly)- Ilex opaca (American Holly)- Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon Holly)
References
– “Ilex championii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287824&isprofile=0& – “Ilex championii.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/207165/ – “Holly, Champion’s.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14399/i-lex-championii-i/details
