Ilex myrtifolia aka Myrtle Dahoon

Taxonomy

Ilex myrtifolia, also known as the myrtle dahoon or myrtle-leaved holly, is a slow-growing and compact holly species native to the Southeastern United States. It typically reaches an ultimate height of around 2.5m and features young purple shoots. The plant is characterized by small, very dark green narrow leaves that are spiny in nature. During spring, it produces greenish-white flowers, which are later followed by vibrant red, orange, or yellow berries.

Common names

Myrtle Dahoon, Myrtle Leaf Holly, Myrtle Leaved Holly

How to care for Myrtle Dahoon

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Myrtle Dahoon is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

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

Soil

Myrtle Dahoon is very sensitive to dry soil. To ensure your Myrtle Leaf Holly is thriving and blooming, choose a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still allow for adequate drainage and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great soil additives that will help to retain moisture and provide your Myrtle Dahoon with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. Make sure to mix these soil additives into the potting soil before planting and water the soil thoroughly. By providing your Myrtle Dahoon with a well-draining, moisture-retaining soil, you can help to maximize its growth and keep it blooming.

Lighting

Myrtle Dahoon requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Myrtle Leaf Holly is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Fertilizer

The Myrtle Dahoon is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.


More info:
Wikipedia