Maytenus ilicifolia (Espinheira Santa)

Maytenus ilicifolia (Espinheira Santa) green leaves close up with sharp edges on plant branches
Maytenus ilicifolia (Espinheira Santa) green leaves with sharp points attached to thin woody stems

Botanical names: Maytenus ilicifolia, Celastrus ilicinus

Common name: Espinheira Santa

Family: Celastraceae

Origin: South America

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 9-10

Small tree 10-20 ftPlant form: Small tree
Plant mature sizeMature height: 10-20 ft
Full sunSemi-shadeSun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold toleranceCold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Regular. Let topsoil dry slightlyWatering: Regular
Yellow, orange flowersFlower color: Yellow, orange
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Ornamental foliageFoliage color: Ornamental foliage
Thorny or spinyThorns: Thorny or spiny
Ethnomedical plant. Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine

Espinheira santa is a small, shrubby evergreen tree growing to 5 m in height with leaves and berries that resemble holly. It is even found in city landscapes for its attractive, holly-like appearance.

Leaf infusions and leaf powder in capsules or tablets are currently being used for ulcers, as an antacid, as a laxative, as a colic remedy, to eliminate toxins through the kidneys and skin, to support kidneys, support adrenal glands, support digestive functions, and as an adjunctive therapy for cancer.

Similar plants: Maytenus ilicifolia (Espinheira Santa)


Maytenus ilicifolia (Espinheira Santa) with green spiky leaves, a close up of the plant branch.
Maytenus ilicifolia (Espinheira Santa) shows distinct spiky green leaves along the main plant branch.


Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/maytenus_ilicifolia.htm
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