Ilex crenata aka Japanese Holly
Taxonomy
Common names
Japanese Holly, Box Leaf Holly, Box Leaved HollyHow to care for Japanese Holly
Difficulty
Caring for Japanese Holly is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Water
Japanese Holly should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Japanese Holly is very sensitive to dry soil. To ensure your Box Leaf Holly is thriving and blooming, choose a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still allow for adequate drainage and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great soil additives that will help to retain moisture and provide your Box Leaf Holly with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. Make sure to mix these soil additives into the potting soil before planting and water the soil thoroughly. By providing your Japanese Holly with a well-draining, moisture-retaining soil, you can help to maximize its growth and keep it blooming.
Lighting
Japanese Holly requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Box Leaf Holly is always in the right place to thrive.
Toxicity
Japanese Holly is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Fertilizer
The Japanese Holly grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Japanese Holly’s native range is E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.
More info:
Wikipedia