The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Japanese holly

Ilex crenata

EYE-leks kren-AY-tah Audio

This dense, evergreen holly reaches 6 to 10 feet tall and at least as wide. The species is rarely used in landscapes, but there are many cultivars available with more interesting shape and color. This plant grows slowly, but it can be invasive. Its dark green leaves are lustrous, and the black fruit is hidden beneath them, so it is not obvious as in other hollies. Use Japanese holly in foundation plantings, hedges, beds and borders, or formal gardens.

CareProvide full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil in a sheltered location. Prefers slightly acidic soil.   

PropagationFrom cuttings

ProblemsFoliar burn, spider mites, chlorosis, Thielaviopsis blight

  • Genus : Ilex
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7
  • Plant Height : 6 to 10 feet
  • Plant Width : 6 to 10 feet
  • Growth Rate : Fast, Slow
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Characteristics : Showy Foliage
  • Plant Type : Shrubs
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Flower Color : White

Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members

Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.

Start Free Trial

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide