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Description
Ilex Mucronata, commonly known as Catberry or Dahoon Holly, is an evergreen shrub native to the southeastern part of North America. This plant belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family and is one of the many species of holly. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide, and its growth rate is moderate.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
The leaves of Ilex Mucronata are glossy, dark green, and oblong-shaped with a pointed tip. They can grow up to 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. The bark of the stems and branches is light gray and smooth. This plant produces small white flowers in the spring, which are followed by bright red berries in the fall that persist throughout winter.
Care Guide
Water: Ilex Mucronata prefers moist soil but can tolerate occasional dry periods. It is important to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, acidic soil. If the soil is alkaline, use sulfur to lower the pH level.
Sunlight: Ilex Mucronata can tolerate full sun to partial shade. However, it produces more berries in full sun.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ilex Mucronata is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites, scale insects, and whiteflies can occasionally infest this plant.
Habitat
Ilex Mucronata is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and low woods in the southeastern part of North America. It can also be grown in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ilex Mucronata deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is deer resistant.
Q: How tall can Ilex Mucronata grow?
A: It can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ilex Mucronata?
A: Fertilize once a year in the early spring.
Q: Can Ilex Mucronata grow in full sun?
A: Yes, it can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
- Ilex Opaca
- Ilex vomitoria
- Ilex glabra
- Ilex aquifolium
References
- “Ilex Mucronata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285718.
- “Ilex Mucronata.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp121.
- “Ilex Mucronata.” North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ilex-mucronata/.
