Ilex latifolia
Lusterleaf Holly
Pronunciation
I-leks lat-ti-FOL-e-a
Family
Genus
Nativity
Japan, China
Growth Habit
Pyramidal tree with dense growth.
Hardiness
7
Culture
Full sun, in well-drained, moist soils. Tolerates the heat of the southeastern US quite well.
Facultative Status
Prefers moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil
Landscape Use
Excellent specimen, could be used in small groupings and hedges.
Foliage
Dark green year round. Alternate, oblong, with relatively finely serrate margins, 4 to 8 inch long. Foliage is leathery and course texture. Blends well with the texture and color of Southern magnolia foliage.
Flower
Dioecious, creamy white, quite fragrant.
Fruit
Drupe, red, about .33 inches long, generally borne in abundance.
Propagation
Seed, cuttings.
Pests
None serious.
Cultivars
Used in the breeding of other species/cultivars. I. x koehneana and cultivars, I. 'Mary Nell', and I. 'Mary Nell Sibling'.