Chinese Holly Evergreen Shrub 20 Seeds Ilex USA Company

Ilex cornuta, commonly known as Chinese holly or horned holly, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Aquifoliaceae. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan. Chinese holly is appreciated for its attractive foliage, which often features distinctive horn-like spines on the leaves. Here's some information about Ilex cornuta:

Description: Chinese holly is a dense, multi-stemmed shrub that typically grows to a height of 6 to 10 feet (2 to 3 meters), though it can vary depending on the cultivar and growing conditions. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and often have a distinct horned or spiny appearance along the margins. The small, inconspicuous flowers are followed by berries that range in color from red to orange and persist through the winter.

Cultivation: Chinese holly is adaptable to a range of growing conditions. It thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is relatively low-maintenance once established and is drought-tolerant once the roots are well-developed. Pruning can help shape the shrub and encourage bushier growth.

Berries: The berries produced by Chinese holly are a notable feature. They add color and interest to the landscape, particularly during the fall and winter months when other plants may be dormant. However, please note that the berries are toxic if ingested by humans and animals, so caution is advised if you have children or pets.

Landscape Use: Chinese holly is often used in landscaping for its ornamental value. It can be grown as a specimen plant, in hedges or screens, or as part of foundation plantings. The spiny foliage can also make it useful as a deterrent to unwanted foot traffic or animals.

Cultivars: There are several cultivars of Ilex cornuta available, offering variations in size, leaf shape, and berry color. Some cultivars have more pronounced horn-like spines, while others have different growth habits or fruit characteristics.

Wildlife: Despite the toxicity of its berries to humans and pets, Chinese holly can provide a source of food and cover for wildlife, including birds that may eat the berries without harm.

Growing Instructions

Seed Stratification: Holly seeds typically have a hard seed coat that needs to be broken down for successful germination. Cold stratification is a common method used to mimic winter conditions and promote germination. Place the cleaned seeds in a plastic bag with a slightly moistened medium (such as damp peat moss or vermiculite), seal the bag, and place it in the refrigerator for several weeks (about 2 to 3 months).

Germination Medium: After stratification, prepare a well-draining germination medium. A mix of peat moss and sand or a commercial seed-starting mix can work well. Fill small pots or trays with the germination medium.

Sowing Seeds: Plant the stratified seeds on the surface of the germination medium. Press them lightly into the medium, but don't bury them too deep. It's a good idea to sow multiple seeds per pot to increase the chances of successful germination.

Moisture and Warmth: Place the pots or trays in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Cover the pots with plastic wrap or a clear plastic dome to create a mini greenhouse effect that helps maintain humidity. Keep the germination medium consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Germination: Germination can take several weeks to months, so be patient. Once you see seedlings emerge, remove the plastic cover to provide better air circulation.

Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, you can transplant them into larger containers.

Hardening Off: Before planting your Chinese holly seedlings outdoors permanently, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions over a period of 1 to 2 weeks. This process, known as "hardening off," helps the seedlings adjust to changes in temperature, sunlight, and wind.

Planting Outdoors: Choose a suitable location for your Chinese holly plants. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and slightly acidic (pH around 5.0 to 6.5). Space the plants according to their mature size, as Chinese holly can grow to a height of 6 to 10 feet (2 to 3 meters).

Care and Maintenance: Provide regular water to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the establishment phase. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.