Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly)

Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly) is an evergreen tree native to eastern Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. It is a member of the family Aquifoliaceae and is cultivated for its attractive foliage and berries. Here's some information about Ilex cornuta:

Appearance: Chinese Holly is a medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters), though some specimens can reach up to 40 feet (12 meters) tall. It has a rounded or pyramidal shape with dense, branching foliage. The leaves are glossy, leathery, and have a unique shape with three to five spines along the margins. They are usually dark green in color, but some cultivars may have variegated or yellow leaves.

Flowers and Fruits: Chinese Holly is dioecious, meaning individual trees are either male or female. The small, inconspicuous flowers appear in spring and are usually white or creamy white in color. Female trees produce clusters of small, spherical berries in the fall. The berries start off green and turn to shades of red or orange as they mature. They persist through winter and are a valuable food source for birds.

Growing conditions: Chinese Holly thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It is generally hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9. Chinese Holly is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially in hotter climates.

Maintenance: Chinese Holly is a low-maintenance tree. It requires minimal pruning, usually limited to removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Chinese Holly is generally resistant to pests and diseases.

Uses: Chinese Holly is commonly planted as an ornamental tree in gardens, parks, and landscapes. It is valued for its attractive foliage, which provides year-round interest. The unique leaf shape adds an interesting visual element to the landscape. The berries of Chinese Holly are not typically consumed by humans but are highly attractive to birds, making it a valuable addition for wildlife gardens. Chinese Holly can also be used as a hedge or screen due to its dense growth habit.

Cultivars: There are several cultivars of Ilex cornuta available, offering variations in leaf color, size, and habit. Some popular cultivars include 'Rotunda' with a rounded growth habit, 'Dwarf Burford' with compact growth and abundant berries, and 'Needlepoint' with slender, needle-like leaves.