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Description
Ilex Chinensis, also known as Chinese holly, is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It is native to China, Taiwan, and Vietnam and belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family. The plant has a dense, rounded crown and spiny, glossy, dark green leaves that are oval or elliptical in shape. The plant blooms in spring and produces small white flowers that are followed by red berries in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
Chinese holly is a slow-growing plant with a dense, rounded crown that can reach up to 30 feet tall. Its spiny, glossy, dark green leaves are oval or elliptical in shape and can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant produces small white flowers in spring that are followed by red berries in the fall. The berries are about 1/4 inch in diameter and are produced in clusters. Chinese holly is an evergreen plant, meaning that it retains its leaves year-round.
Care Guide
Chinese holly requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0. The plant also needs regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can lead to root rot. Chinese holly should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. The plant prefers full to partial sunlight and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chinese holly is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Spider mites are tiny, destructive pests that can cause significant damage to the plant’s leaves. Scale insects are another common pest that can cause yellowing of the leaves and a decrease in plant vigor. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause brown, circular spots on the leaves. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing it with proper care and maintenance.
Habitat
Chinese holly is native to China, Taiwan, and Vietnam and is commonly found in forests, shrublands, and along streams and rivers. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can grow in a wide range of habitats, from temperate to tropical regions. In its native habitat, Chinese holly is an important food source for birds and other wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chinese holly a good plant for hedges?
A: Yes, Chinese holly is an excellent plant for hedges. Its dense, spiny foliage provides excellent privacy and security, and it is easy to maintain with regular pruning.
Q: Does Chinese holly need a lot of water?
A: Yes, Chinese holly needs regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Chinese holly grow in full shade?
A: Chinese holly can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full to partial sunlight. If grown in full shade, the plant may become leggy and weak.
Q: Is Chinese holly deer resistant?
A: Yes, Chinese holly is deer resistant. Its spiny foliage makes it unappealing to deer and other wildlife.
Related Plants
- Ilex aquifolium (English holly)
- Ilex opaca (American holly)
- Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon holly)
References
- “Ilex chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c190.
- “Chinese Holly.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/grow-chinese-holly-3269374.
- “Ilex chinensis.” Plant Finder, www.gardenia.net/plant/ilex-chinensis.
