Ilex coriacea aka Large Gallberry

Taxonomy

Common names

Large Gallberry, Sweet Gallberry, Bay Gallbush

How to care for Large Gallberry

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Large Gallberry, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

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

Soil

If you're planting Large Gallberry, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Bay Gallbush is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Large Gallberry will thrive!

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Large Gallberry prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Large Gallberry is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Fertilizer

The Large Gallberry is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Large Gallberry’s native range is South-eastern N. America - Florida to Louisiana, north to S.E. Virginia.


More info:
Wikipedia