Holly family

What are the differences between Ilex rotunda, Ilex crenata, Ilex serrata, and Ilex serrata? An explanation of how to distinguish between similar species.

Ilex rotunda, Ilex crenata, Ilex serrata, and Ilex serrata all belong to the Ilex genus of the family Aquifoliaceae. They not only grow in evergreen broad-leaved forests but are also frequently seen planted in parks and gardens, making them extremely familiar and common evergreen trees in Japan. They share thick leaves and beautiful red fruits...

2024.03.25

plant

What are the differences between holly (Ilex crenata) and holly osmanthus? What are the differences between Ilex crenata, European holly, and holly mauve? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Are the two types of leaves a result of evolution?

Both holly (Ilex crenata) and holly osmanthus belong to the Oleaceae family and Osmanthus genus, and can be seen cultivated even in urban areas. Young holly trees are also frequently seen in forests. Morphologically, both have serrated leaves, which is why these two species are often confused...

2024.02.05

plant

What are the differences between Rhamnus japonica, Ilex serrata, and Ilex serrata? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! What are the structures of their flowers and fruits?

While *Rhamnus japonica* is a relatively rare deciduous shrub in Japan, it is often compared to *Rhamnus japonica* and *Rhamnus japonica var. japonica*. The similar names and morphological features, such as the drupe fruit and the clustering of flowers and fruits in the leaf axils, make it difficult to distinguish from *Rhamnus japonica var. japonica*, even if you haven't seen it before...

2023.08.07

plant

What are the differences between Japanese holly, golden holly, bean holly, and boxwood? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Why are the flowers so plain to humans but so popular with insects? Do they rely on birds for seed dispersal?

Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) is well-known for being commonly cultivated in gardens as a hedge, but it is originally a species that grows wild in Japan. While distinguishing it from other varieties is not particularly difficult due to its distinctive leaves, there are numerous cultivated varieties, which can make identification a little challenging. Here, we will discuss...

2021.09.21

plant

What are the differences between Ternstroemia gymnanthera, Pittosporum tobira, Rhaphiolepis indica, and Ilex crenata? We explain how to distinguish between similar species! Did you know that Ternstroemia gymnanthera is a rare species in the biological world, possessing both male and hermaphroditic flowers on separate plants? And that its fruit deceives birds?

Ternstroemia gymnanthera is an evergreen tree that grows in relatively dry areas near the coast and is quite popular as a garden tree. However, because its leaves are entire and have no serrations, it lacks distinctive features and is often confused with completely different species such as Pittosporum tobira, Rhaphiolepis indica, and Ilex crenata. However, in many cases, the color of the leaf stalks...

2021.09.20

plant