Plant Profile: Ilex crenata

Japanese Holly is an attractive evergreen shrub belonging to the Aquifoliaceae family. This shrub is characterized by its dense, sturdy, and compact growth, reaching heights of up to 12 feet. It is commonly utilized for creating topiaries, and its vibrant red berries add a splash of color to winter landscapes.

For optimal growth, plant it in full sun to partial shade within acidic, well-drained soil, although it can adapt to a variety of soil types. This shrub can be pruned significantly to control its size, making it suitable for smaller gardens. It is resilient, tolerating drought, shade, air pollution, and both poor and clay soils. Additionally, it is easy to transplant and has a slow growth rate, with numerous cultivars available.

In terms of pests and diseases, Japanese Holly generally faces no major issues. However, it may occasionally attract spider mites and nematodes. It's worth noting that alkaline soils can lead to yellowing leaves.