Kurogane holly

Ilex rotunda

Physical Characteristics

Ilex rotunda is an evergreen Tree growing to 20 m (65ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower in April, and the seeds ripen from October to December. 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 - E. China, Japan, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Depurative The stem bark is detoxicant[218]. The plant is used in a mixture with other herbs for its haemostatic action[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].