Species Japanese holly
small, oval to rounded, dark green leaves with brownish black, small flowers

Japanese holly

Ilex crenata

The Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) is an evergreen shrub that is native to Japan and the Pacific region. It grows up to three meters tall and has dark green, glossy, spiny leaves. Its small white flowers appear in early summer and persist through autumn, eventually turning into red berry-like fruits. These fruits are edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and preserves. This species is often planted as clipped hedge or net, due to its ability to search and grow dense and even.

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,yellow,purple,olive,black Fruits In Autumn Ready In Winter

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

bronze,green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) should be watered deeply and consistently to ensure healthy growth. Generally, the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. In the hotter months, water the plant at least once a week, if not twice. In cooler months, watering once every 2 weeks may be enough. Make sure to check the soil frequently and adjust the watering as needed, as the soil may dry out faster under dry conditions or during hot, sunny days.

sunlight

Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) prefers full sun or partial shade. It will thrive in a well-draining soil that remains relatively moist. This evergreen shrub should receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to ensure healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Morning sun should be ideal as the exposure to direct midday and afternoon sun will be less intense than the midday sun. During the intense heat of summer, some afternoon shade may be beneficial when temperatures exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

pruning

Pruning of Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Pruning should involve removing any dead, damaged, or weak branches, as well as any branches that are crowding the interior of the shrub. In order to maintain the plant’s natural shape, thin the branching out no more than 1-third of the total branches. Alternatively, any branches can be sheared back to give the tree a softer look. Finally, if desired, taller branches can be pruned back to maintain a controlled size and height.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Ilex crenata typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Ilex crenata typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Ilex crenata typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map