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Japanese Holly
Ilex integra
γ’γγγ
An evergreen tall tree of the warm-temperate zone in Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. It bears red spherical fruits in winter and is popular as a garden and park tree. Named for the sticky birdlime substance (torimochi) obtained from its bark.
Identification Points
- βLeaves coriaceous, elliptic with entire margins (no serration)
- βRed spherical fruits persist on branches in winter
- βDioecious
Habitat
Warm-temperate forests, coastal woodlands, and gardens
Season
April (flowers), NovemberβJanuary (fruit)
3D Specimen Model
Kyushu University, Shikano Lab (CC0)
View on SketchfabβMorphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification
Growth form
Tree
Evergreen/Deciduous
Evergreen
Leaf margin
Serrate
Leaf shape
Round
Leaf type
Simple
Venation
Pinnate
Petal fusion
Free
Flower symmetry
Actinomorphic
Ovary position
Superior
Phylogenetic Positionγ’γγγη§ β
Phylogenetic Position
Angiosperms > Eudicots > Core eudicots > Aquifoliales > Aquifoliaceae
Divergence Era
Late Cretaceous to Paleogene (ca. 80 Ma onwards)
Evolution Notes
Aquifoliaceae is an independent family in the asterid clade; its evergreen habit and bird-dispersed red fruits aided range expansion in temperate forests.
View on evolution timeline βSources & References
AI-generated, needs verification