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Description
Ilex Integra, commonly known as the Japanese Holly or Mochi Tree, is a flowering evergreen plant that belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family. It is native to Japan and China, and it is widely cultivated for its ornamental purposes. The plant has glossy dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and have a spiny margin. The flowers of Ilex Integra are small and white, and they bloom in early summer. The plant produces small red berries that ripen in the fall and persist throughout the winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
Ilex Integra is an evergreen plant that can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. The plant has a dense, pyramidal shape, and it is often used as a hedge or screen. The leaves of the plant are glossy, dark green, and have a spiny margin. They are oval-shaped and can grow up to 2 inches long. The flowers of Ilex Integra are small and white, and they bloom in early summer. The plant produces small red berries that ripen in the fall and persist throughout the winter.
Care Guide
Ilex Integra is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the first year of growth. Water the plant deeply once a week.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and fall with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Ilex Integra prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ilex Integra is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the plant can be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and leaf spot. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Scale Insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and can stunt growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Leaf Spot: This disease can cause yellowing and dropping of the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a copper fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Ilex Integra is native to Japan and China, where it grows in forests and on hillsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It is widely cultivated for its ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ilex Integra grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Ilex Integra can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Ilex Integra?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during the first year of growth.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Ilex Integra?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Q: Is Ilex Integra susceptible to any diseases?
A: The plant can be susceptible to leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Ilex Aquifolium
- Ilex Crenata
- Ilex Opaca
- Ilex Vomitoria
References
- “Ilex Integra.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e315.
- “Ilex Integra.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/54208/.
- “Ilex Integra.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/japanese-holly-plant-profile-3269254.
