Inkberry
ilex glabra
Also known as: ["Evergreen Winterberry","Black Inkberry"]
Overview
A compact, evergreen shrub with dark green, leathery leaves and small, black berries that persist through winter.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Aquifoliales |
| Family: | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Ilex |
| Botanical Name: | Ilex glabra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic to neutral soil with organic matter; suitable for sandy or loamy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done anytime.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); tolerates full sun with adequate moisture.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid leaf scorch; place in dappled light or filtered shade in hot climates; protect from intense afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, acidic, sandy or loamy soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 6–9; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates temperatures down to -10°F (-23°C) in established plants.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bags, humidity dome, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to encourage denser foliage.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or crossing branches; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and drainage; incorporate perlite or sand for sandy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or browning in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn purple or bronze; growth slows; severe cold can damage buds or roots.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in harsh winters; avoid planting in exposed, windy areas.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stall; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH; apply fertilizer in spring; water thoroughly after application; monitor for signs of nutrient burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicIlex glabra berries are toxic to cats. The toxic compounds present in the berries can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects in felines. The ingestion of these berries can lead to irritation of the digestive tract and potential absorption of toxins into the cat's system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Ilex glabra are toxic to dogs. The toxic compounds, including saponins and alkaloids, can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects in canines. The ingestion of these berries can lead to irritation of the digestive system and potential absorption of toxins into the dog's system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicIlex glabra, commonly known as inkberry, contains compounds that can be toxic to humans when ingested. The berries contain saponins and other alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects. The physiological impact is primarily due to the irritation of the digestive tract and potential absorption of toxic compounds into the bloodstream.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Inkberry require full sun?
A: Inkberry can tolerate partial shade but thrives best in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Are the berries edible?
A: The berries are mildly toxic to humans and should not be consumed.
Q: How often should Inkberry be watered?
A: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aquifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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