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Among China's plant resources, there are many unique species that are peculiar in shape, possess medicinal value, or are highly ornamental. Holly is one such plant. What kind of plant is Holly? What are its characteristics and uses? This article will unveil the mystery of Holly.
Holly's Plant Classification
Holly, with the scientific name Ilex rotunda Thunb., belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family, Ilex genus. The Aquifoliaceae family is widely distributed, with its members found all over the world. China also has abundant resources of Aquifoliaceae plants. As an evergreen shrub or small tree, Holly is mainly distributed in the Yangtze River basin and its southern regions in China.
Holly's Morphological Characteristics
Holly has the following morphological characteristics:
1. Crown: Spherical or ovate, with dense branches and smooth, grayish-brown bark.
2. Leaves: Leathery, elliptic or obovate, with a bluntly rounded or slightly concave apex and finely serrated margins. The upper surface is dark green, and the underside is light green.
3. Flowers: The flowers are unisexual and dioecious, small and white, blooming from May to June.
4. Fruits: The fruit is spherical, about 1 cm in diameter, turns red when ripe, and has high ornamental value.
Holly's Uses
1. Ornamental Value: Holly's leaves are vibrant green and its fruits are bright red, giving it high ornamental value. It is often used in landscaping and courtyard beautification.
2. Medicinal Value: The leaves, fruits, and roots of Holly can all be used medicinally, with effects such as clearing heat and detoxifying, activating blood circulation to remove stasis, and reducing inflammation and pain.
3. Environmental Value: Holly has strong tolerance to drought, cold, and pollution, making it an excellent environmental plant.
Holly's Planting and Care
1. Planting: Holly is highly adaptable and can be planted in well-drained soil with full sun. Spring is the best time for planting.
2. Care: Holly grows quickly and tolerates pruning well. During the growing season, it requires regular watering and fertilizing to keep the soil moist. It should be given some shade during the hot summer months.
As a unique plant, Holly possesses high ornamental, medicinal, and environmental value. Understanding its classification, morphological characteristics, uses, and planting and care knowledge helps us to better appreciate and utilize this plant. In the future, Holly will play to its unique strengths in landscaping, courtyard beautification, and the medicinal field.