Brazilian-tea thrives best when potted due to its invasive nature. When potting, choose a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Fill the pot with well-draining soil, placing the plant at the same depth as it was in its previous container. Water thoroughly after planting, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Repot Brazilian-tea every 2-3 years in a slightly larger pot to accommodate its growth. Prune roots during repotting to encourage healthy growth. Mist the plant regularly to maintain humidity levels, especially in dry indoor environments.
Brazilian-tea
- Scientific name
- Ilex paraguariensis
Basic Information
- Aquifoliaceae Family Ilex Genus Brazilian-tea Species
- Aquifoliaceae > Ilex > Ilex paraguariensis
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- Tree
- Height
- 1500cm ~
- Flower Color
- Leaf Color
- Anthesis
- spring
- Sunlight Exposure
Full Sun Long hours of sunlight from morning to afternoon Partial Shade A location in the shade of a tree or where either the morning or afternoon is shaded Full Shade A place where there is no direct sunlight
- Full Sun
- Hardiness Zones
This is an indicator to know to which zone each plant can winter. Knowing the zone of each plant gives you an idea of the cold temperature resistance when grown in the ground without a roof. 2: -42.7 to -40.0 3: -39.9 to -34.4 4: -34.3 to -28.9 5: -28.8 to -23.3 6: -23.2 to -17.8 7: -17.7 to -12.2 8: -12.1 to -6.7 9: -6.6 to -1.1 10: -1.0 to 4.4 11: 4.5 to 10.0
- 9
- Cold resistance
- Fair
- Heat resistance
- Good
- Habitat of origin
- Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay
- Growth Rate
- Normal
What is Brazilian-tea (Ilex paraguariensis)?
What is Brazilian-tea (Ilex paraguariensis)
Flower meaning
Brazilian-tea can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, kept moist, and placed in a warm, sunny location. Cuttings can be taken from healthy stems, dipped in rooting hormone, and planted in a soil mix. Division involves separating the plant into smaller sections with roots and replanting them in individual pots. To maximize propagation success, use a combination of methods to increase the chances of successful growth. Harvest seeds when they are mature and dry, cuttings when they have developed roots, and divide plants during the growing season for best results.
Calendar of Brazilian-tea (Ilex paraguariensis)
Calendar
Brazilian-tea thrives in well-drained, acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It requires a rich soil quality with high organic matter content. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are beneficial for Brazilian-tea's growth and development. Fertilizers should be applied in early spring before new growth begins, and again in late spring or early summer. The recommended amount of fertilizer is typically 1-2 pounds per 100 square feet of soil. Avoid over-fertilization as it can harm the plant. Regular soil testing can help determine the specific nutrient needs of Brazilian-tea. Applying a layer of organic mulch around the plant can also help retain moisture and nutrients in the soil. Regular watering is essential to maintain soil moisture levels for optimal growth.
How to grow Brazilian-tea (Ilex paraguariensis)
Watering
Brazilian-tea is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. These pests can weaken the plant by sucking sap or causing damage to the leaves, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of foliage. Prevention methods include regular inspection of the plant for early detection of pests, maintaining proper air circulation around the plant, and avoiding over-fertilization. In the case of aphids, insecticidal soaps or neem oil can be used to control infestations. Spider mites can be deterred by periodically spraying the plant with water to increase humidity. Powdery mildew, a fungal disease, thrives in humid conditions. To prevent it, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected plant parts promptly. Proper care and monitoring are essential to keep Brazilian-tea healthy and thriving.
Soil and Fertilizer
Brazilian-tea is available in two main varieties: one with red berries (variety A) and another with yellow berries (variety B). When selecting seeds, ensure they are plump and free from mold. For seedlings, choose ones with healthy green leaves and sturdy stems. Variety A is known for its slightly sweeter taste, while variety B offers a more tangy flavor. Consider your preference when choosing between the two. Ensure the seeds or seedlings are from a reputable source to guarantee quality. Pay attention to any specific growing requirements for each variety to ensure successful cultivation.
Sunlight and Place
Brazilian-tea in the United States typically blooms in late spring to early summer. The flowers are at their best during the month of June. Blooming occurs once a year, lasting for about 2-3 weeks. To extend the blooming period, deadhead faded flowers regularly. Additionally, ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and water to promote continuous blooming.
Advanced Information of Brazilian-tea (Ilex paraguariensis)
Pruning
Brazilian-tea, scientifically known as Ilex paraguariensis, is a species of holly native to South America, particularly in Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil. This plant is well-known for its leaves, which are used to make the popular beverage yerba mate. The flowers of Ilex paraguariensis are small, greenish-white, and inconspicuous. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have serrated edges, making them easily distinguishable. The fruits are small, red berries that contain multiple seeds. Ilex paraguariensis is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. It thrives in subtropical climates with well-drained soil and partial shade. This plant is relatively easy to grow, requiring regular watering and protection from frost. The name "paraguariensis" refers to the Paraguay region where it was first discovered. There are several varieties of Ilex paraguariensis, each with unique characteristics and flavors.
Planting and Harvest
The flower language commonly used in America for Brazilian-tea is: - Friendship - Happiness - Good fortune Explanation: In the language of flowers, Brazilian-tea symbolizes friendship. It represents the strong bond and connection between friends, signifying loyalty and support in times of need. This flower also conveys happiness, bringing joy and positivity to those who receive it. Additionally, Brazilian-tea is associated with good fortune, symbolizing luck and prosperity in various aspects of life.
Propagation
For Brazilian-tea, water moderately every 7-10 days during the growing season. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. In winter, reduce watering to every 2-3 weeks as the plant goes dormant. Check soil humidity by inserting a finger 1-2 inches deep; if it feels dry, water the plant. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots. Adjust watering frequency based on environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause wilting. Proper watering is crucial for Brazilian-tea's health and growth.
Pests and Diseases
Brazilian-tea thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. It exhibits good cold tolerance, able to withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). The plant also has a high heat tolerance, thriving in temperatures up to 100°F (38°C). Brazilian-tea prefers an optimum temperature range between 65-85°F (18-29°C). During summer, provide ample water and mulch to retain moisture. In winter, protect it from frost by moving it indoors or covering it with a frost cloth. Brazilian-tea should be placed in a location with well-draining soil. It benefits from strong sunlight but can tolerate some shade. Ideally, it should receive sunlight for 6-8 hours per day for optimal growth.
Habitat of Brazilian-tea (Ilex paraguariensis)
Habitat
Toxicity of Brazilian-tea (Ilex paraguariensis)
Health Benefits
- edible
- edible
- Toxic
- No toxicity
NO DATA
Toxic for dogs and cats
NO DATA