Japanese holly
Ilex crenata 'Geisha'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Greenwood Cuttings,Hardwood Cuttings
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 8
Flowers:
White Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Filtered shade, Full sun
Soil:
Acidic, Well-drained
Fruits:
green,red,black Fruits In Autumn Ready In
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Moderate
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Japanese holly should be watered once per week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per session. During really hot weather, watering should be done more frequently to prevent wilting. It is important to make sure to water the soil evenly and to the full depth of the root zone rather than just sprinkling the surface. Soil should be kept slightly moist but not soggy to avoid root rot. When the plants are actively growing, a liquid fertilizer should be applied every 4 to 6 weeks.
sunlight
Japanese holly (Ilex crenata 'Geisha') should receive full sun to partial shade. It does best in 6-8 hours of direct sunlight in a day, preferably early morning sun and dappled afternoon shade as this plant is more sensitive to intense heat and prolonged periods of direct sun. This species also prefers well-draining soil with a pH of slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
pruning
Japanese holly should be pruned in late winter or early spring. It is best to lightly shear the shrub prior to new growth each year to retain form, promote new growth, and increase flowering. To maintain compact growth, remove up to 1-third of the oldest shoots each year. If heavy pruning is needed, it’s best to spread it out over 2 to 3 years.
