Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Aquifoliaceae

Genus:

Ilex

Species:

Ilex guianensis

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

12-20 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug

Bloom Colors:

white

Native Range

United States: Puerto Rico

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:

4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers humid tropical forest conditions