Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Aquifoliaceae

Genus:

Ilex

Species:

Ilex aquifolium

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

20-40 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jan, feb, apr, may, jun, dec

Bloom Colors:

red, white

Native Range

United States: California, Hawaii, New Jersey, Oregon, Virginia, Washington, Canada: British Columbia, Ontario

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★☆☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Bee Keystone:

★★★★★ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

Prefers shaded or semi-shaded areas in its native range.