Ilex cornuta is a species of holly that is native to eastern Asia. The word "Ilex" is pronounced /ˈaɪlɛks/ and refers to the genus of hollies. "Cornuta", on the other hand, is pronounced /kɔrˈnjuːtə/ and is derived from the Latin word "cornutus" which means "horned". This refers to the shape of the leaves, which have sharp points like horns. Overall, the spelling of "Ilex cornuta" reflects both its scientific classification and physical characteristics.
Ilex Cornuta, commonly known as Chinese Holly, is a medium-sized evergreen tree or shrub species belonging to the family Aquifoliaceae. Native to eastern Asia, particularly China, this species is renowned for its ornamental appeal and is commonly cultivated in many regions of the world for its elegant foliage and attractive berries.
The Ilex Cornuta typically grows to a height of 10 to 30 feet, displaying a dense rounded or pyramidal growth habit. Its glossy, leathery leaves are ovate or elliptical in shape, measuring around 2 to 4 inches in length, and possess a distinctive spiny margin. The vibrant green foliage persists year-round, providing an inviting and lush appearance to landscapes.
One of the prominent features of Ilex Cornuta is its fruiting ability. The plant produces small, round berries that mature from green to bright red or orange-red in color. These berries persist into winter, adding a pop of color to the landscape and serving as a valuable food source for birds.
Chinese Holly is highly valued as an ornamental plant due to its adaptability, drought tolerance, and resistance to various pests and diseases. It is often utilized in hedges, foundation plantings, or as a standalone specimen. Additionally, its dense branching and spiny leaves make it an effective barrier for privacy or security purposes.
Overall, Ilex Cornuta is a visually appealing evergreen species that contributes significantly to aesthetic landscaping, while also providing ecological benefits through its persistent berries and habitat support for birds.
The word "Ilex" has its origin in Latin, derived from the Old Latin word "ilex" which referred to the holm oak, a tree species in the evergreen oak family. Similarly, "Cornuta" also has Latin roots, stemming from the word "cornutus", which means "horned" or "having horns".
When referring to the plant species, Ilex cornuta specifically, "Ilex" is the genus name in the family Aquifoliaceae, commonly known as hollies. "Cornuta" is the species name, given due to the distinctive horn-like projections on the leaves of this plant.