Japanese holly 'Golden Gem' (Ilex crenata 'Golden Gem')

Japanese holly 'Golden Gem'

Japanese holly 'Golden Gem' is a dense, compact evergreen shrub noted for its small, rounded golden-yellow leaves that add a splash of sunlight to gardens. It typically thrives in partial shade, allowing its vivid foliage to stand out in contrast against darker, green plants. This hardy cultivar is low-maintenance, ideally suited to creating colorful borders or low hedges in various environmental settings.

Scientific classification

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

1 m

Plant Height

1.5 m

Spread

Yellow, Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Care Guide for Japanese holly 'Golden Gem'

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese holly 'Golden Gem' thrives in humid conditions and needs consistent moisture, especially in spring and summer. Water daily if rainfall is less than 25mm (1 in) weekly. Morning and evening watering is ideal. Avoid tap water; use rain or distilled water to prevent soil salinization and plant stress.

Fertilize: Japanese holly 'Golden Gem' requires minimal fertilizer, ideally twice during the growing season. Use thin applications in early spring and autumn, avoiding fertilization when temperatures exceed 30℃ (86°F). Insufficient or excessive fertilization can lead to weak growth, sparse fruits, and dull leaf appearance.

Pruning: Japanese holly 'Golden Gem' thrives with early to late winter pruning, trimming up to one-third to maintain shape and promote growth. Remove dead or damaged branches for better air circulation. Regular maintenance keeps japanese holly 'Golden Gem' compact and bushy; use clean, sharp tools to minimize stress.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Japanese holly 'Golden Gem'

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free