Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly)

Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly) is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree with shiny foliage of tiny, wavy-toothed, dark green leaves, ½ to 1¼ in. in length (1-3 cm). The smooth rounded leaves resemble those of boxwood. However, Japanese Holly is hardier and more disease resistant. Small black fruits follow the tiny white flowers in late summer and fall. The habit is very variable, ranging from a dense, compact, many-branched shrub to a small, upright tree. Easy to grow, Japanese Holly can be pruned, if desired, to manage its size. It is quite popular for foundation planting, massing, and hedges.

• Grows up to 4-10 ft. tall and wide (120-300 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. This plant is not fussy and tolerates a wide variety of soils. However, it prefers moist, slightly acidic soil with good drainage. Some drought tolerance once established.
• Perfect for hedges and screens, foundation plantings, city gardens, or cottage gardens.
• Prune immediately after flowering.
• May be affected by aphids, scale insects, holly leaf miner, or holly leaf blight. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Native to Asia, from Japan, Korea to Russia.