Ilex asprella

Physical Characteristics

Ilex asprella is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). It is in leaf all year, in flower in April, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antiphlogistic Depurative Febrifuge Sialagogue VD The root is antiphlogistic, depurative, febrifuge and sialogogue[147, 218]. A decoction is used in the treatment of high fever in colds, laryngitis, acute tonsillitis and traumatic injuries[147]. It is also applied externally to boils and abscesses[147]. The leaf is used in the treatment of gonorrhoea and snakebite[218].

Known Hazards

Although no specific reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, the fruits of at least some members of this genus contain saponins and are slightly toxic. They can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and stupor if eaten in quantity[274].