Brazilian holly
maytenus ilicifolia
Also known as: ["Peumo","Holly-leaved mayten"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to South America, known for its holly-like leaves and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Celastrales |
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Genus: | Maytenus |
| Botanical Name: | Maytenus ilicifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate regions, adaptable to containers
- 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, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may become leggy in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, ensure proximity to a bright window but avoid direct afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid frost.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches to improve air circulation; heading back to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above a node.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; prune roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid watering excessively in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest parts of Maytenus ilicifolia may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but should still be kept out of their reach.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Maytenus ilicifolia by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMaytenus ilicifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's toxic effects are generally not severe but can be problematic in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Maytenus ilicifolia toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: How fast does Maytenus ilicifolia grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, typically reaching its mature size over several years.
Q: Does Maytenus ilicifolia require full sun?
A: It can tolerate partial shade but thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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