Ilex latifolia Seeds | Tarajo Holly
LATIN NAME: Ilex latifolia
COMMON NAME: Tarajo Holly
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Tarajo Holly (Ilex latifolia) is a tall, bold, evergreen tree. In time it steadily becomes a rounded crown, reaching 5-10 metres. It is content in sun or part shade and rich, moist ground. At maturity it stands about 5-10 metres. It is hard to name another plant that gives this much for this little trouble.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the Ilex group, Ilex latifolia draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. Tarajo holly has a real and distinguished place in the research. Nothing exotic is required: standard seed-sowing practice, done carefully, is enough.
Uses & Benefits
Tarajo Holly brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Ecologically, tarajo holly is a generous tree of the garden. It establishes readily and then requires nothing out of the ordinary.
The holly genus gives the world yerba mate and yaupon, caffeinated teas rich in antioxidants, and the Chinese Ku Ding Cha, an intensely bitter infusion studied for metabolic effects. Ornamental hollies have toxic berries and are for the birds.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Tarajo Holly under ordinary good conditions. Sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly into a loose, well-drained seed compost, water in gently, and keep the sowing in partial shade with steady moisture. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
It forms a tall, bold, evergreen tree, which makes spacing and siting straightforward. Given partial shade and free drainage, it asks for little routine attention.
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