How to Care for Ilex cornuta (Chinese holly)

Korean name: 호랑가시나무

Chinese holly is an evergreen shrub or small tree with stiff, spiny leaves. Its leaves are thick, glossy, and alternate, producing bright red berries in winter that add color to gardens during the cold season. It is hardy and adapts well to various soil conditions.

Key facts

• Category: Garden tree & shrub
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Where to keep: outdoors
• Native to: China and East Asia
• Growth rate: Moderate
• Pets: Toxic, so keep it well away from pets and children.
• Traits: cold hardy, evergreen, berries, spiny, garden plant
• Also known as: Chinese holly, Horned holly, Winterberry holly

Care Guide

• Light: Grows well in partial shade, avoiding direct sunlight.
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil surface is dry.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
• Humidity: Normal indoor humidity is sufficient.
• Temperature: -15~25°C
• Fertilizer: Apply slow-release or organic fertilizer in spring and fall.

Common questions

How often should you water Ilex cornuta?

Water thoroughly when the soil surface is dry. Roughly every 7 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Ilex cornuta?

It likes Grows well in partial shade, avoiding direct sunlight.. You can grow it outdoors. Use Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil..

Is Ilex cornuta safe around pets?

Toxic, so keep it well away from pets and children.

Is Ilex cornuta good for beginners?

Difficulty: Moderate. Keep it around -15~25°C. Humidity: Normal indoor humidity is sufficient.. Fertilise Apply slow-release or organic fertilizer in spring and fall..