Chinese Holly Plant Care
Ilex cornuta Lindl. & Paxton
Ilex cornuta, commonly known as Chinese holly or horned holly, is a slow-growing, densely foliaged evergreen shrub in the Aquifoliaceae plant family. It is native to eastern China and Korea and attains a height of about 3 metres (9.8Â ft).
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to part shade
50–80°F
40–70%
What Is the Chinese Holly?
Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta) belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family within the Ilex genus. Chinese Holly is native to eastern China and Korea and attains a height of about 3 metres (9. Chinese Holly is also known as Horned Holly.
Chinese Holly displays an upright, dense shrub or small tree growth habit, reaching up to 15 inches tall with a spread of approximately 10 inches. Chinese Holly produces small white flowers in clusters, followed by red berries.
Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Chinese Holly?
Ilex cornuta requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Chinese Holly Need?
Chinese Holly thrives in full sun to part shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–200 lux. Avoid placing Chinese Holly in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to part shade
100–200 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Chinese Holly Prefer?
Ilex cornuta grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Chinese Holly prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Chinese Holly?
Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Chinese Holly to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Chinese Holly?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Chinese Holly?
Chinese Holly can be propagated through seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to yaupon holly plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Chinese Holly Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Chinese Holly?
Chinese Holly is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, leaf miners. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Chinese Holly Need?
Chinese Holly grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to eastern China and Korea and attains a height of about 3 metres (9, Chinese Holly is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Chinese Holly as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Chinese Holly is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Ilex genus — compare its care with other Ilex species on PlantoScan.
Chinese Holly tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Ilex Species
Other Ilex species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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