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Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Japanese Holly

Beginner

Ilex crenata

Evergreen bonsai with glossy dark green leaves and red berries. Autumn-winter berries are highly ornamental. Hardy and easy to grow, a representative Japanese tree.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Lifespan
100+ years
Size
10-40cm (bonsai size)

About

Ilex crenata, also known as Japanese holly or box-leaved holly, is a species of flowering plant in the family Aquifoliaceae, native to East and Southeast Asia.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Japanese Holly

The Japanese Holly lives 100+ years.

Size of the Japanese Holly

The Japanese Holly grows to 10-40cm (bonsai size).

Basic Info

Origin

Eastern Asia including Japan, China, and Korea

Lifespan

100+ years

Size

10-40cm (bonsai size)

Temperature

-5〜35℃

Growing Tips

Placement

Outdoor sun to partial shade

Watering

Water when topsoil dries. Prefers slightly moist

Styling

Tolerates trimming well. Easy to keep compact

Notes

Dioecious. Female tree needed for berries

Beginner-friendlyEvergreenRed berriesGlossy leaves

Japanese Holly FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Japanese Holly?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Japanese Holly?
A

The average lifespan of Japanese Holly is 100+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Japanese Holly get?
A

The mature size of Japanese Holly is 10-40cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Japanese Holly?
A

The price of Japanese Holly varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

Growing Specifications

USDA Zone
5–8

Sources: NC State Extension: Ilex crenata

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Ilex crenata Thunb.

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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