Chinese holly - Ilex cornuta (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Chinese holly

Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) is an evergreen shrub native to China and Korea. The chinese holly is often grown ornamentally in gardens and is considered easy to grow and maintain. The chinese holly bears fruits that are thought to be superior to other holly species.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

1 m to 10 m

Plant Height

1.8 m to 2.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3 mm to 4 mm

Flower Size

Red

Fruit Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Chinese holly

Distribution of Chinese holly

Distribution Map

Chinese holly is a holly that is native to habitats with sandy well-drained soils in Eastern China and Korea. This plant has also been introduced to the US states. It is considered an invasive species in Georgia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Ravines, hills, wild places, alongside mountain paths

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) is an evergreen shrub popular for its spiked year-round leaves and abundant red berries which attract birds. This tall shrub can be used as a hedge because of its dense growth or grown as a specimen in winter gardens. However, a number of smaller cultivars of this plant exist which are more often seen in domestic gardens, often growing with coral bells, redtwig dogwood, or rose of Sharon.

Symbolism

Protection, Luck

Name Story

Chinese holly||Horned holly: This plant has attracted lots of attention in the horticulture community for its charming and unique leaves and large red berries. Furthermore, the plant is called Chinese Holly because it is native to China. Also, this species is featured with three of the spiny lobes sticking up, making it look like horns. Hence, it is also called horned holly.

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Toxicity

Chinese holly berries are toxic due to saponin, causing vomiting, dehydration, and diarrhea. Children are at risk due to the berries' bright color. Cats may show mild toxicity and dogs face gastrointestinal issues if they ingest large amounts. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if symptoms appear.

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Quickly Identify Chinese holly

Horn-shaped leaves with spiny projections resembling bull horns.

Dioecious nature requiring both male and female specimens for seed production.

Small, dull-white, fragrant flowers with 4-parted radial blossoms.

Conspicuous berry-like drupes on female plants, vibrant to subdued red in color.

Slender stem with dense branchlets, transitioning from green to reddish-green in winter.

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Care Guide for Chinese holly

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Chinese holly originates from areas with variable moisture and showcases moderate drought tolerance. It thrives with watering every 1-2 weeks and is typically grown outdoors. As an evergreen, chinese holly retains moisture in its leaves, making it suitable for climates with intermittent rainfall.

Fertilize: For chinese holly, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer, about a quarter cup per foot of branch spread. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent burn. Reduce fertilization in late fall to prevent frost damage. Water thoroughly post-application and follow safety precautions.

Pruning: Chinese holly requires annual pruning to encourage new branch growth for optimal flowering and fruiting. Prune before early spring, ideally in winter, removing old leaves and one-third of old branches. In snowy areas, bundle remaining branches to prevent damage from ice and snow.

Propagation: Chinese holly propagates effectively in Spring or Summer using cuttings. Success is indicated by new foliage growth. To achieve optimal results, provide a well-draining medium and maintain consistent moisture.

Repotting: Repot chinese holly every 2 to 3 years in early spring, using a pot a few inches wider to support root health. Provide shade from direct sunlight and maintain consistent moisture to enhance the ornamental appeal of chinese holly's glossy leaves and sharp spines.

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Images of Chinese holly

Distribution of Chinese holly

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Chinese holly

Care Guide for Chinese holly

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