Also known as Australian Holly · Bacteria Bush · Big Coralberry
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Hen's Eyes (Ardisia crenata) is a popular evergreen shrub known for its glossy leaves and clusters of bright red berries. It thrives in shade and is great for containers
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Protect from direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring to autumn).
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Mildly toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering frequency during winter months to prevent root rot.
Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves and fungal issues.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain a tidy shape and encourage bushier growth.
Light pruning can be done throughout the year to shape the plant and remove spent flower stalks.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring or from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Seeds require stratification for best germination.
Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining potting mix, kept moist and warm. Patience is key for successful propagation.
Repot your Ardisia crenata every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in early spring, just as new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Hen's Eyes (Ardisia crenata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Ardisia |
| Species | Ardisia crenata |
Similar in genus Ardisia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
