Water
Chinese Holly prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during winter months when growth slows down.
Also known as Burford's Holly · Horned Holly
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta) is a dense, upright evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green, leathery leaves featuring spiny margins. It produces abundant red berries in fal
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade. More sun often leads to denser growth and better fruiting.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil, but not soggy. Allow top inch to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures. Can tolerate a range of conditions but may struggle in extreme heat or cold.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed in spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Mildly toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Chinese Holly prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during winter months when growth slows down.
Prune Chinese Holly in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to shape the plant, remove dead or damaged branches, and control size. You can also lightly prune after flowering to maintain its form.
Wear gloves, as the foliage is spiny.
Chinese Holly is best propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep moist and warm, and provide bright, indirect light until roots form.
Young Chinese Holly plants may need repotting every 1-2 years, while mature specimens can remain in their containers longer. Repot in early spring into a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta)
Where Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
| Species | Ilex cornuta |
Similar in genus Ilex
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
