Ilex macropoda aka Macropoda Holly

Ilex macropoda is a deciduous tree in the holly family, Aquifoliaceae. It comes from temperate parts of eastern Asia. Its native range covers southeastern China, reaching Hubei, plus Korea and Japan. In Japan, it grows in forests on low mountains. Chinese habitats include mixed woods, woodland edges, thickets, and roadsides. There, it occurs at elevations of 2,625–6,234 feet [800–1,900 metres]. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The tree can reach about 43 feet [13 metres] tall. It sheds its leaves rather than keeping them through winter. Its size suits the canopy layer of a woodland garden. The available evidence gives no mature spread or detailed crown shape. It also gives no species-level account of bark or leaf shape. These gaps limit how closely its appearance can be described.

Flowers appear in June, and seeds ripen from October to November. Male and female flowers grow on separate trees. Grow both sexes together when seed production is the aim. The sources give no species-level flower colour or fruit colour. Leaves have a recorded use as tea. This limited food use does not establish that other parts are edible. No medicinal uses or other practical uses are recorded.

Choose moist soil that drains well, rather than a waterlogged site. The tree accepts sandy soil, loam, and clay. It also grows in mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline ground. Full sun and partial shade both suit it. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 6–9. Roots dislike disturbance, with older trees more sensitive to moving. Set young plants in their lasting site as early as possible. They may need winter protection during their first two years.

Seed propagation calls for patience, and seedlings grow slowly. Fresh autumn seed may take 18 months to germinate. Stored seed may need two winters and a summer. A cold frame provides a place to sow it. Grow young seedlings in light shade during their first year. The evidence names no specific pests or diseases for this tree. It also provides no confirmed species-specific report of poisoning. That lack of a report does not prove all parts safe. Plants For A Future records no weed concern.