Ilex aka Holly

Taxonomy

Ilex, also known as holly, is a unique genus of over 570 species in the Aquifoliaceae family. It is the only living genus in the family and has the most species of any woody dioecious angiosperm genus. These evergreen or deciduous trees, shrubs, and climbers can be found in tropical to temperate zones all over the world. The common European holly, Ilex aquifolium, is well-known for its glossy evergreen leaves and red berries, often used in Christmas decorations and cards. There are many other varieties of holly to grow, some with attractive foliage and berries that range in color from orange to purple. However, hollies are generally male or female, so it's important to check before purchasing. If you want berries on a female plant, you will need to plant a male nearby. Some cultivar names can be misleading, such as Ilex aquifolium 'Golden Queen' being male, while Ilex x altaclerensis 'Golden King' is female. Another rare form of holly is the Emerald Colonnade Holly, which is a houseplant that requires regular watering to thrive. It does best in long-lasting, direct light and should be placed within one foot of a window. This holly variety prefers soil that retains moisture well and should not require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Holly, Dearf Pagoda, Dwarf Pagoda, Emerald Colonnade Holly

How to care for Holly

Difficulty

Holly presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Holly should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Holly requires special care to keep it thriving. Its sensitivity to dry soil means that you need to be especially careful when it comes to selecting the right potting soil. Look for a soil that will retain moisture, but is also well-draining. A good potting soil should have plenty of organic material, such as coco coir or sphagnum moss, which will help to keep the soil moist and provide extra nutrition for your plant. When planting your Dwarf Pagoda, make sure to mix the soil with some compost or manure to give it an extra boost of nutrients. Additionally, you should water your plant often to ensure that the soil remains moist. With the right care and attention, your Holly will bloom beautifully in your home.

Lighting

Holly thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Dwarf Pagoda.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Holly is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.


More info:
Wikipedia