Kurogane holly - Ilex rotunda (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Kurogane holly

Also known as: Small-fruited holly

Kurogane holly (Ilex rotunda) is one of the most attractive hollies and is an evergreen that will grow to 15 m tall. Native to Japan it has been growing in the United States for some 200 years. It blooms in spring with bright red berries ripening in fall to winter offering a stunning display for winter.

Scientific classification

Species

Kurogane holly (Ilex rotunda)

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

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

15 m

Plant Height

11 m to 14 m

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

5 mm

Flower Size

Red

Fruit Color

White, Purple

Flower Color

Images of Kurogane holly

Distribution of Kurogane holly

Distribution Map

Kurogane holly is a plant native to broadleaf forests in East Asia. In its native range, it spans several major regions, including parts of the eastern Asian continent. Apart from its natural habitats, kurogane holly has been introduced and is cultivated in areas of Western Asia, where it has established itself beyond its endemic locales.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Forests, Mountain slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

With its volume, dark, spiny foliage, and attractive red or yellow berries, kurogane holly makes an excellent and unusual hedging shrub. Being extremely heat and drought tolerant, it is ideal to use as a hedge or screen in places where less drought-tolerant plants can't thrive. It is also effective as an espalier, specimen shrub, or small tree due to its decorativeness.

Symbolism

Protection, Anti-Lightning, Luck

Interesting Facts

Kurogane holly has been reported as a toxic plant, but the compounds found in kurogane holly are still under scientific research.

Name Story

Kurogane holly||Small-fruited holly||Round leaf holly: Ilex rotunda is called 'Kurogane-mochi' in Japanese, which means 'the black iron holy'. The common English name was partly coined from the Japanese name, so this type of holy is now often referred to as kurogane holly.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Kurogane holly is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs, causing poisoning through ingestion. Symptoms include gastrointestinal and neurological effects in humans, physical discomfort in cats, and gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The entire plant is toxic, so immediate veterinary care is critical upon accidental consumption by pets to ensure their health and safety. Exercise caution in environments where kurogane holly is present. Kurogane holly poses a moderate toxicity risk to dogs.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Kurogane holly

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Kurogane holly thrives in well-drained, moderately moist environments and demonstrates drought tolerance. It requires watering every two weeks and is primarily cultivated outdoors, flourishing in climates where rainfall aligns with its growth cycles.

Fertilize: Fertilizing kurogane holly with balanced nutrition is essential for health. Use high nitrogen formulas in early spring and moderate quantities every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Adjust feeding in fall and winter, utilizing slow-release granules to prevent root burn and support optimal growth.

Pruning: Kurogane holly, with glossy evergreen leaves and red berries, thrives with winter pruning during dormancy. Techniques include thinning for airflow, removing damaged branches, and selective cutting to boost growth. This care enhances kurogane holly's appearance and structural strength for an attractive landscape presence.

Propagation: The kurogane holly is propagated by sowing seeds from ripe berries in a peat-perlite mix. Consistent moisture and a stable environment are crucial for germination. Once seedlings develop true leaves, transplant them into individual containers to promote optimal growth.

Repotting: To thrive, repot kurogane holly every 2-3 years in early spring using a container one size larger. Employ a well-draining pot to support growth, and monitor watering and light conditions for a few weeks post-repotting to minimize stress and aid recovery.

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

Images of Kurogane holly

Distribution of Kurogane holly

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Kurogane holly

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases