Dahoon Holly
ilex cassine
Also known as: ["Dahoon Holly","Swamp Holly","Dahoon"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to the southeastern United States, known for its glossy green leaves and bright red berries that persist through winter.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Aquifoliales |
| Family: | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Ilex |
| Botanical Name: | Ilex cassine |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix or sandy loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in cooler climates, or filtered sunlight in hotter regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Monitor leaf color for signs of sunburn; use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, acidic to neutral potting mix
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is loose and friable; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–11; tolerates temperatures between -12°C to 38°C; prefers mild temperatures with protection from extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid burning roots; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; softwood cuttings root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and moist.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (21–27°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant to maintain form; remove dead or diseased wood; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged wood first; make clean cuts just above buds; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss or compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or yellowing in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop, slowed growth, and potential dieback of tender stems; frost can damage or kill foliage.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid watering before cold snaps to prevent frozen roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute as directed; fertilize in spring/summer only; avoid contact with stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicIlex cassine berries are toxic to cats, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal irritation and potential systemic toxicity. The plant's compounds can cause significant discomfort and health issues in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Ilex cassine are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset and other adverse effects. The toxicity is primarily due to the irritant nature of the plant's constituents.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicIlex cassine, commonly known as Dahoon Holly, contains toxic compounds, primarily ilicin, in its berries. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects due to the plant's irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ilex cassine toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Ilex cassine require full sun?
A: It can tolerate partial shade but thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does Ilex cassine produce berries?
A: Yes, it produces bright red berries, especially on female plants.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aquifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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