Roundleaf Holly
ilex rotunda
Also known as: ["Roundleaf Holly","Roundleaf Holly Tree"]
Overview
A slow-growing evergreen tree or shrub native to East Asia, known for its glossy, dark green leaves and red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Aquifoliales |
| Family: | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Ilex |
| Botanical Name: | Ilex rotunda |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in partial shade, or as a container plant in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- 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 amended with peat or compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in moderate humidity.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent indoor temperatures; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with micronutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth; air layering is also effective for larger specimens.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is developing.
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 may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant to maintain form; remove dead or diseased branches; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
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 root bound areas; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or browning; stunted growth; bud drop.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a protective cover during frost; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced vigor; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicIlex rotunda berries are toxic to cats, inducing gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity. The plant's toxic compounds can cause significant physiological distress in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Ilex rotunda are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The plant contains compounds that can lead to adverse physiological responses in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicIlex rotunda berries contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects when ingested by humans. The toxic principles are primarily found in the fruit and can lead to physiological disturbances if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ilex rotunda toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Ilex rotunda require full sun?
A: It can tolerate partial shade but thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: How fast does Ilex rotunda grow?
A: It is a slow-growing plant, typically adding only a few inches per year.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aquifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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