Ilex rotunda, also known as the round-leaf holly, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Japan and China. It is a popular ornamental plant, valued for its glossy, dark green leaves and bright red berries.
Ilex rotunda leaves are typically 2-4 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. They are leathery and have a smooth margin. The leaves are elliptical or ovate in shape with a pointed apex. The leaf veins are pinnate, meaning they branch out from the midrib like the fingers on a hand.
The leaves of Ilex rotunda are evergreen, which means they remain green throughout the year. This is because the leaves have a thick waxy cuticle that helps to prevent water loss.
The leaves also have a number of adaptations that help them to survive in cold temperatures, such as sunken stomata, which are small pores in the leaf surface that allow for gas exchange but also help to reduce water loss.
Ilex rotunda leaves are a source of food for a number of animals, including birds, deer, and rabbits. The leaves are also a valuable source of tannins, which are compounds that can be used to make leather and other products.
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