Ilex canariensis
Small-leaved holly
Description
Source: leafsnapIlex canariensis, commonly known as the Canary Island Holly, is a species of evergreen tree that belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family. Native to the Canary Islands, this tree can reach heights of up to 10 meters. It features a dense, rounded crown with glossy, dark green leaves that are spiny and leathery in texture. The small, white flowers of the Canary Island Holly are pleasantly fragrant, and the tree produces bright red berries that ripen in winter. Ilex canariensis thrives in well-drained soils and can grow in either full sun or partial shade. Once established, it demonstrates some drought tolerance. Its attractive foliage and colorful berries make it a popular choice as an ornamental plant. Additionally, the tree has medicinal properties, containing compounds such as caffeine, tannins, and flavonoids, which have been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Beyond its ornamental and medicinal uses, the Canary Island Holly contributes to wildlife conservation by providing food for birds like thrushes and blackcaps, which feed on its berries during the scarce winter months. Overall, Ilex canariensis is a visually appealing evergreen tree that offers both aesthetic and ecological benefits, making it a favorite among gardeners worldwide.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
☀️ Light Partial sun
Small-leaved holly is native to habitats like forest understories and rocky sites, where it occurs in natural shade. It favors partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, reflecting its versatile and hardy character.
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C
Small-leaved holly is fairly adaptable to heat and wide temperature fluctuations. In hot weather, you should ensure proper watering and provide sufficient shade to prevent sunburn. Conversely, small-leaved holly is not very tolerant of low temperatures. It can endure some cold, but very low temperatures may cause frost damage.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
Fertilize your Small-leaved holly in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding improves overall health, producing robust growth, increased tolerance to adverse conditions, and enhanced resistance to pests and diseases. Keep a consistent fertilization schedule for your Small-leaved holly to achieve vibrant, deeply colored foliage and a full, lush appearance.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Ilex
- Family
- Aquifoliaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 4.88 m to 10.06 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.05 m to 4.88 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall